Downs & Proud event

The event, which is now in its eighth year, is going from strength to strength.

Olivia Beatty, whose family started up the local support group, said: “The purpose of the event is to raise awareness of Down Syndrome and of course to raise as much money as possible and hopefully everyone who comes along will have a great time and if previous years are anything to go by that should be the case.

“The people of Lurgan have turned out every year and have really made the effort to make the day and night a success and we are very grateful for there support”

This year marks a very important year as it is the first time that the United Nations has officially made March 21 ‘World Downs Syndrome day - A very Special day for very Special people. The date of the March 21 has been chosen as ‘21-3’ represents the three copies of chromosome 21 that makes up Downs syndrome.

“We are so proud that the United Nations have acknowledged this day and it really is a cause for celebration.” said Olivia

This year’s events kick off at 2pm with a children’s fancy dress disco. There will also be some local hip-hop dancers there to get the party started as well as a magician and other fun events throughout the day and hopefully Lurgan’s bravest firefighters will also make an appearance. Tickets are priced at £2.50 and are selling fast.

Later that night the quiz starts at 8pm and will see some of the finest brains in the Lurgan area do battle. Following the quiz there will be a disco and raffle. Tickets are priced £5.

The Beatty family thanked everyone over the last eight years for their continued support with a special mention to their family and friends and local businesses who each year help make it a success and a big thank you to the management and staff of the Woodville arms, who each year go out of their way to make the event run smoothly.

Anyone requiring tickets please contact Aine on 0784 184 7346.