Will you support ‘Northern Ireland’s Big Night In 2020’?

The event, organised by Ballymena Hospice Support Group, will take place on December 4 at 7pm and will be broadcast live on YouTube and Facebook.

Some of the acts confirmed for the online gala event include the recently formed, Boyz on Block, which includes former Boyzone member Shane Lynch as well as the ‘Master of Musicals’ singer Peter Corry.

The line-up also includes the legendary singer songwriter Phil Coulter, X factor finalist Andrea Magee, country music performers Nathan Carter and Dominic Kirwan, Ulster Canadian musical icons The Irish Rovers, stage and television comedian William Caulfield, former world champions Field Marshall Montgomery Pipe Band, lead dancer with Riverdance Lauren Smyth and a host of others.

M&EA Mayor, Councillor Peter Johnston, said: “This has been an incredibly difficult year for everyone but the fact that local people, artists and businesses are volunteering their time is a testament to the fantastic work that goes on in our borough.

“I would encourage everyone to tune in to this event on December 4 and show your support for Northern Ireland Hospice & Children’s Hospice.”

Like many charities, the NI Children’s Hospice has been struggling to raise funds since the onset of the Covid-19 Pandemic several months ago. The Hospice needs £15 million per annum to operate with only £4.5 million coming from government. This leaves a shortfall of £10.5 million to be found every year.

Marie Reynolds, one of the organising group, said: “The Big Night In 2020” is the creation of the NI Hospice Ballymena Support Group and is aimed at raising funds for the only Children’s Hospice in Northern Ireland.

“What started out as a local fundraising event has grown to include local and international stars, pledging their support and offering performances on the night.

“It’s going to be a very exciting night!”.

To watch on the night you can go to: nihospice.org/BigNightin and click on the “watch live” button or for more information please visit the Ballymena NI Hospice Support Group Facebook page.