Roy Keane set for a visit to local area

Roy Keane, who will be a special guest at Armagh City Hotel in February. Pic: INPHO/Donall Farmer

Manchester United fans in the Banbridge and Dromore area will have a rare chance to see Old Trafford legend Roy Keane at a local event early in the new year.

The Republic of Ireland assistant manager and ITV pundit will be the special guest at a charity gala night in the Armagh City Hotel on Thursday February 4th.

Keane will be interviewed on stage before what promises to be a lively question and answer session with members of the public.

The event has been organised by Keane’s former United teammate Pat McGibbon.

“United fans will love it, but I’m sure there’ll be supporters of other clubs and none who’ll want to hear what Roy has to say as well,” said Pat.

“It’s a rare chance for people to enjoy a night with him and we’re going to make it a bit special with a motivational speaker, dinner and entertainment.”

The speaker is flamboyant Scotsman Watt Nicoll, who has worked with international sports stars and was voted the world’s top motivator.

There’s also a charity auction.

Tickets for An Evening with Roy Keane go on general sale next Monday (November 16th) at Skelton Travel in Lurgan, telephone 028 38 324741.

The 600 tickets are expected to be snapped up quickly - they are £65 per person and there will also be a limited number of corporate tables of 10.

The £65 includes a drinks reception, three-course meal, the question and answer session, guest speaker and live entertainment, a band.

Proceeds from the night go to the Train to be Smart TTBS Juniors charity established by Pat McGibbon in Lurgan and now set to be rolled out across the ABC Borough Council area.

TTBS provides grassroots football coaching for young people and education on the importance of sport for improving physical and mental health.

The Armagh event is part of a major fund-raising drive as the charity aims to secure its own facilities to expand its work.