Navan charity says 'ride on' after taking its cut from fundraiser

A novel fundraising event held in Nobber on Sunday has so far realised €2,260 for Navan Employment Options. The event was a fundraising ride-on lawnmower cut that took place on Sunday 18th September in Nobber, organised by Martin Tiernan and James Carolan, both from Nobber. Some 43 people with ride-on lawnwowers took part, cutting grass all at once with each in a straight line up a hill in a field at Spiddal, Nobber, owned by local man Henry Mulligan. When they reached the top of the hill, they emptied their grass bags and then they drove back down and up again! Refreshments were served afterwards in Keogan's Lounge in the village. During the event, someone, who was later revealed to be John Paul Cassidy, dressed up as The Stig character from BBC's 'Top Gear'. He, along with Lindsay Carolan and Joan Owens, raised money when people donated €2 a time to guess who it was. He later revealed himself in Keogan's and Johnny Keogan gave John Paul a complimentary pint in recognition of his task! John Paul joked that, while in disguise, the hardest thing was the tempation to speak and having to stay silent! Organiser Martin Tiernan thanked everyone who participated and everyone who contributed money towards the event. Maureen Harrington and Julie Gargan of Navan Employment Options attended the fundraiser. They paid tribute to Martin Tiernan, James and Maeve Carolan. Navan Employment Options offers services to young adults with an intellectual disability. Maureen emphasised that the fundraising is very much appreciated in light of government cutbacks in disability services. She added that the money raised will be used to maintain and further develop Navan Employment Options' current programmes. "Money raised today ensures the continuation and development of existing programmes and activities of Navan Employment Options," she said. A presentation night will be held at a later stage when the total amount raised has been collected.