Festive show to raise money for charity

The event is close to the hearts of organisers Anna and Alex Murphy of AA Music, as Anna knows only too well the value of the work carried out by Marie Curie.

Anna explained: “When my mother was ill with cancer we had first-hand experience of the care and support that the Marie Curie nurses provide. I went to visit Annette at the Ballinderry Inn and she said she’d love to help us. She has also lost loved ones to cancer and is generously giving us the venue for the night and also providing supper, so all the money raised will go straight to Marie Curie.

Alex added: “This is very much a community venture, getting to know your neighbours in rural areas is a very good thing. You can come here as strangers and leave as friends. Our good friend and neighbour Debbie Deboo, who is our in-house photographer, is making some of her delicious cakes, I think some other ladies are baking too.

“The line-up of entertainment on the night includes local singer and pianist Sophie Giraudeau, who has won many cups and trophies at music festivals. She recently bought a piano from us and we are so looking forward to hear her sing.”

Also on the bill is Chrissy Erwin. Other treats on the night will be resident group Murphy & Co with songs from Neil Diamond, Sinatra and John Lennon. Anna will read her poem The Cornflower, for which she was one of the prize winners in the recent National Poetry Competition held at Stormont.

Paul and David are working on their Blues Brothers Tribute, while Noel Mills will help you step into Christmas with a singalong.

There will be lots of prizes on the night for the ballot and a night’s bed and breakfast at the Ballinderry Inn will be auctioned, as well as a guitar from AA Music. Organisers are still taking donations for the ballot and auction if anyone would like to support Marie Curie in this way. Everyone is giving their time and talents for free, for Marie Curie. To reserve a seat, contact 9261 0634, pay £9 on the night, concessions £7.