Annual Aiden McAteer event returns to the Fir Trees Hotel

The annual ‘70s/80s for Aiden’ charity disco was launched this week with a special visit from the iconic Back to the Future DeLorean.

Owned by Strabane man, Keith McCallion, the time-machine arrived in Strabane on Tuesday for the launch where it and Keith were joined by Aiden McAteer’s friends and family.

The annual ‘70s/80s for Aiden’ event, comprising of a fancy dress disco and raffle in the Fir Trees, is in memory of late Strabane man Aiden McAteer who died in February 2014 after a fight against leukaemia. Known for his legendary smile, Aiden’s positivity never faltered in the face of his illness and that smile is continuing to inspire people ten years on.

In a quirk of fate, today (Thursday) is the tenth anniversary of Aiden’s passing.

Local DJ, journalist and Aiden’s friend – and one of the organisers of the annual disco – Mickey Ferry explained, “The disco seems to get bigger and bigger every year. Last year was the first since 2019 due to Covid and it was a great success, especially with the expansion into the 1970s. As usual there will be a raffle on the night to raise money for Leukaemia and Lymphoma NI with prizes for the best dressed person on the night.

“Of course, dressing up is not essential but why not get into the spirit of things? Let’s enjoy a special night for a special guy!”

Mickey added that, despite Aiden’s name being synonymous with the night, it is open to everyone.

“The night is primarily in Aiden’s memory but the night is for everyone who has been affected by cancer or leukaemia, whether you’re a survivor or the relative of a survivor or someone who has passed away from the disease,” he said.

So, it’s time to start ‘making your mind up’ about a costume for the next craic-filled night on April 6.