Speed-dating and the return of the “slow set” are just two of the highlights at what aims to be Ireland’s ultimate singles’ night, taking place in Killarney this September.

And the modern-day cupid behind the initiative is Brosna woman and farmer’s daughter, Margaret Hennessy, who sees a gap for the over 30s when it comes to finding love in rural Ireland.

“Being involved with the Irish set dancing and country music scene, I’d often hear people say: ‘God I’d love to meet somebody.’ But where do you go if you are over 30? If you go to a nightclub, you just feel like a babysitter,” says Margaret.

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“Similarly, if you are separated, divorced or have lost a partner, how have things changed since you were in your 20s? And how do you start again?”

In 2011, Margaret organised her first singles’ event in Killarney, with over 400 people in attendance, most ranging in age from 30 to 55. However, due to further demand, she is now organising a follow-up event in the Gleneagle hotel in Killarney on Saturday, 14 September. With tickets priced at €20, the event will kick off at 7.30pm, with a firm focus on getting the singles to mingle.

“The night will start with speed-dating to help break the ice. It also means that if people connect with somebody, they will be able to approach them on the dance floor afterwards,” explains Margaret.

“We will have music by Jigabyte, followed by a DJ playing hits from the ’80s and ’90s – so no Miley Cyrus or twerking! We are going to have a few slow sets too, and we’ll be encouraging men to ask the women to dance. But there will also be the ladies’ choice.”

Other highlights will include a best-dressed competition and a fundraising sports auction in aid of the Donal Walsh #livelife foundation.

And if the Killarney singles’ night is a success, Margaret sees great potential to host smaller events throughout the country on a more regular basis.

“Coming from a farming background myself, I well understand the difficulties involved in meeting men or women in Ireland today,” she says.

“It is my intention that these events could bring like-minded people together.”

Tickets are available from the Gleneagle Hotel, Killarney, for €20, or at the door on the night. For further information, call 064-6671555.