CHARITY CONCERT FOR SMA MISSION IN ZAMBIA GREAT SUCCESS

The Charity Concert forgainsed by the Quinn Family and held in the O'Byrne Hall of the new Magherafelt Parish Centre was a huge success. A full house enjoyed a night of excellent entertainment provided by three sets of artists.

A young Traditional group, “ Venue i”, comprising Austin Donnelly from Mayobridge, Stephen Flanagan from Belfast, cousins Deirdre and Joe Murray from Toome and Barry Quinn from Magherafelt got the night off to a great start with tunes both fast and slow performed brilliantly.

Fiddler Adam (Cormac Duffin) from Moneyglass assisted by his wife Bernie left the audience in raptures with his one-man show of tremendous fiddle playing and singing of many different styles. Evidence of his awesome impact was that he received a standing ovation at the end of his act.

Headlining the Concert was the newly-formed Quinn Family Band led by the legendary Brendan Quinn with Philomena, Stephen, James and Sean assisted by keyboard player Eugene McMullan. They were launching this new band and were apprehensive since they were performing all the old favourites. They needn't have worried as they rose to the occasion and produced a show of brilliant music and songs with the audience participating fully in many numbers.

The concert organisers are delighted with the success of the night and are indebted to fr Gates and the parish community, the Centre manager Mona, all those who helped, all the businesses and individuals who gave generous donations and the large audience whose popular comments were: "Best night ever" and "When is the next one?"

The proceeds of the Concert, in excess of £4,800, will go directly to Fr Brian O'Kane's parish in Zambia. The money will help in the building of a new church and the upkeep of an orphange, schools and other essential amenities.

Many thanks to anyone who contributed to the success of this venture.