‘80s for Aiden hits decade anniversary

MARKING a decade since his passing, the annual ‘70s/’80s for Aidan once more packed out the Fir Trees Hotel as locals gathered to remember one of Strabane’s favourite sons.

The disco is a remembrance of Strabane man Aiden McAteer, a popular young man in the town who passed away a decade ago following a fight with leukaemia. The outpouring of grief which engulfed Strabane prompted the night which has diligently raised money for Leukaemia/Lymphoma NI ever since.

On Saturday a celebration of music from the eras of bell bottoms, sequins, leg warmers and pastel colours, revellers who knew their T-Rex from their Thompson Twins, gathered for a night of glam rock and pumping pop music.

One of the organisers, and DJ on the night Mickey Ferry remarked, “It was yet another fantastic night in Aiden’s memory which only seems to get bigger every year.

People in Strabane love the music of the ‘70s and ‘80s era and, to be honest, would dance to it every night of the week. Although not compulsory, it is customary that people usually dress up and the outfits were absolutely incredible, all keeping within the theme.

We had Robert Palmer and his leggy backing band, Cher, a Gremlin tangled up in Christmas lights, members of KISS in full makeup, a Grease-themed collection of the T-Birds and Pink Ladies and the Wilson sisters, Ann and Nancy from Heart.

“It’s been ten years now since we started this event in Aiden’s memory and are delighted that the McAteer family not only support this annual event in his honour but get fully involved. Once again, we reached the £1,000 mark, every penny of which will be going to Leukaemia/Lymphoma NI. I’d like to issue my sincere thanks to everyone who donated raffle prizes, the staff at the Fir Trees for once more giving us a venue, Seamus O’Connor and Rob Coyle and the McAteer family for once more making this a very special event in the Strabane calendar.”