Over €16K raised through Christmas lights tractor run

Over 550 vehicles took part in yesterday's Christmas Lights Vehicle Parade, which raised €16,400 for three different charities, writes Gemma Good.

Organisers are thanking everyone who took part and donated, particularly considering no bucket collections were permitted this year due to Covid restrictions.

The format of annual event was somewhat different this year. It began in different locations in order to comply with Covid-19 guidelines.

“It was a great success,” said Kevin Smith, one of event's organisers.

Kevin said that he didn’t expect to raise such an amount considering bucket collections were prohibited.

“It was fantastic to see so many people donating through the online platform.

“It was about the charities... People are coming out and supporting the charities, which I think is in the back of everyone’s minds.”

A presentation of €5,400 was made yesterday evening (Sunday) to each of the charities: SOSAD Cavan, the Vincent Mcgee Benefit Fund and The Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust fund.

The presentation took place at 6.30pm in the Market Square in Cavan.

“It was a great fun day for everybody,” said Kevin.

Kevin thanked all volunteers “for all their help in ensuring the event was a success".

He extended his thanks to Charlie Conaty, The Lavey Inn, Ballyhaise Parish, Lacken GFC, Crosserlough GFC and Denn GFC, among others.

Kevin would especially like to thank the Gardaí for their contribution in ensuring the event went successfully.

If you would still like to donate, click on the following link:

https://www.ifundraise.ie/clvp/4977/donate

Here is a video showing the story of how it all started - as a benefit for Vincent Mcgee following an accident: