Monasterevin church hosts annual charity concert

KILDARE’S own Michael English accompanied by the Monasterevin Gospel Choir put on a marvellous for the 20th anniversary of a charity concert held is St Peter and Paul’s Church in Monasterevin.

“This is the third time in the last 10 years that we booked Michael,” said committee spokesperson Rita Callanan.

“It’s always for local charities, and this year was for the senior citizens and the local church,” said Rita.

“Over the years we’ve done the concert for each of the three schools, the day care, Vincent de Paul and the food bank over the years,” she explained.

Ms Callanan estimated a crowd of 340 attended the two-and-a-half-hour show.

“He did a great show, a marvellous show,” she said.

“Over the last 20 years we’ve made around €120,000 for local charities.

“The organization is all voluntary and there’s only eight of us on the committee.

“The Gospel Choir were there to open the show with three of their own songs, and then to sing harmony with Michael for the rest of the show.

“He’s originally from Castledermot, and he made his start on the Toy Show!” she laughed.

“He’d be known for writing ‘Shine a Light’ for Charlie Bird, and it was a good concert.

“We would like to thank Fr Liam Merrigan for the use of the church, and Bishop Denis Nulty honoured us with his presence, and he said he had a great night!

“We’d also like to thank all the support from the locals, and from far and wide for supporting us every year,” said Rita.

Organisers also wanted to pay tribute to three local sponsors – SuperValu, Earley’s Fashion Shop, and Fitzpatrick’s New Lodge – who have been behind the concert every year, as she and her stalwart committee take a well-earned breather before starting to organise their 21st concert for next year.