The Martin O’Connor benefit night will be held in the McWilliam Park Hotel in Claremorris on Monday 26 April.

The venture is being organised by Declan Nerney and friends and is a tribute to the late Martin who died from injuries received when he was knocked down by a car in North Lauderdale, Florida, in February, hours before he was due to board the annual Gertie Byrne Caribbean Cruise.

Martin (41) was drummer with the Declan Nerney band for the previous two years and news of his tragic death caused widespread shock and sadness throughout the showbiz scene. Martin is survived by his wife Valerie and two young children, his parents Michael and Dolores and the family circle.

Joining Declan and his band for this major benefit night will be Nathan Carter, Gerry Guthrie, Robert Mizzell, Mike Denver, Brendan Shine, Michael English, Jimmy Buckley, Louise Morrissey, Sean Wilson, The Davitts, Patrick Feeney, Mary Darcy, Annette Griffin, John Staunton, The Conquerors and La Bamba.

The dance starts at 9pm and tickets cost €20. Advance booking from the hotel is advisable. CL