Organisers will be hard at work in the coming week as final preparations are put in place for the Fundraising Barn Dance and Barbeque, being held in Ballinasloe Rugby Club, on Friday June 15.? The novel night promises to make its mark on the summer social calendar in Ballinasloe, but more importantly, will see all proceeds from the night divided between Portiuncula's Paediatric Unit, and the Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children in Crumlin.

Working hard to pull the fundraising event together are the local organising team of Angie Divilly, Martina Flanagan, Jacinta Divilly, Geraldine Dolan Carroll, and Deirdre Flanagan.? Already the team are indebted to a number of local organisations, namely Ballinasloe Rugby Club who are kindly providing the venue, and Ballinasloe Credit Union, who have already generously donated a cheque for ?1000 to the cause.

With ticket sales now beginning in earnest PRO of the Organising Committee Martina Flanagan says she hopes that the novelty of the night should appeal to people, and make for a night with a difference.? "A marquee will be erected for the night, a live band and Disco will entertain the crowd, and with a full bar, barbeque, spot prizes, and a cowboy and cowgirl dress code, the night should provide plenty of entertainment" says the PRO. "As well as having a good night it's all in a good cause" she adds.

Those wishing to dine at the Big Barbeque are advised to attend between 8.30pm and 9.30pm while the PRO is also urging the use of Taxi's to the ticket only event. "We would encourage people to get taxis to and from the venue" says the PRO "it's safer, and we have already organised to have taxis available from the Rugby Club, all night long".

Tickets for the Fundraising Barn Dance and BBQ cost ?25 each and are now available from any of the organising team, but particularly from Jacinta Divilly in Tohers, or PRO Martina Flanagan on 087 9007036.? Also donations of any amount, or sponsorship for the night, would be most welcome.