Councillors among almost 100 people taking part in Cookstown Firewalk

by Gráinne Connolly

Almost 100 people have their names down to take part in tonight's Firewalk Challenge in Cookstown. 

The highly anticipated event has been organised in aid of suicide awareness in young people, with proceeds going to the Niamh Louise Foundation. 

Among those planning to walk over hot coals is Chair of Mid Ulster Council Kim Ashton, along with Trevor Wilson of the UUP and Cathal Mallaghan from Sinn Féin. 

Councillor Kim Ashton told Q Radio says she's delighted to be taking part, and hopes it's a great night for young people: 

"It's really to promote the charity and to give our young people an opportunity to see that there's a great future here in Northern Ireland and Mid Ulster and see that there's a support network there. 

"If they need someone to talk to and really as Councillors we're there to support them aswell." 

The event is supported by 6 local organisations who have come together to raise funds in aid of the Niamh Louise charity; Cookstown Fr Rocks GFC, Cookstown Hockey Club, Cookstown Youth, Cookstown Boxing Club and Dungannon Rugby Club. 

The Chair of the Council said:

"We're delighted with the council to be supporting these clubs that are coming from right across. 

"I think it's a fantastic starting point that these clubs are going to work together for the benefit of our young people. 

"It is going to be a good evening, we would like everyone to come out and support them but it's really about supporting young people in the area and the Niamh Louise foundation." 

The Firewalk will be taking place this evening at 8.30pm in the Tullylagan Hotel in Cookstown.