Hooley at the Lough returns

Some of the biggest names in country music will soon descend upon Dungannon as this year’s ‘Hooley at the Lough’ is set to return for a great cause.

Taking place in the Ace Coaches yard in May, the weekend of top-tapping tunes and music extravaganza aims to raise awareness and vital funds for the Northern Ireland Chest, Heart and Stroke charity.

Organised by local businessman, Sean Patterson, who tragically lost his wife, Geraldine, to a heart attack, and is now living with a heart condition himself, the weekend will feature a variety of entertainment including music from Andrew McMurdie, Dundalk Ukulele Strummers, Brantry Band, and this year’s headliner, country music star, Jimmy Buckley.

The weekend’s festivities will further include a kids primary school disco, a tractor and classic car run, a fight night, a traditional music session, a strongman competition and amusements.

Speaking with the Tyrone Herald, Mr Patterson said, “We have changed the whole format of the hooley this year, with the main event taking place on the Sunday.

“The entire weekend includes something for everyone and is for a great cause so get your tickets now.”

This is the eleventh year that Mr Patterson has hosted the festival in aid of Northern Ireland Chest, Heart and Stroke.

Having recently reached the whopping milestone of raising over £50,000 since the hooley was founded, he was presented with a Belfast Crystal Plaque from the charity in recognition of such an
achievement.

Acknowledging the 50k milestone, Mr Patterson said, “It’s all down to the support of the community and the generosity of local businesses.

“I think it’s important to note that the money stays local, with 90p of every pound we raise put
straight back into the Tyrone community.”

l ‘Hooley at the Lough’ will take place from Friday, May 10 until Sunday, May 12.

l Tickets can be purchased at the gate on the day, or to guarantee you don’t miss out, you can purchase them in advance from the Ace Coaches Yard in Dungannon, or via PayPal using the email address acecoaches@msn.com.