Michael Lyster to speak at Valentine's Candlelight Ball

RTÉ broadcaster and Galway native Michael Lyster has been announced as the guest speaker at the highly anticipated 17th annual Valentine’s Candlelight Ball in aid of the Western Care Association.

Michael is a household favourite in Ireland and most famed for his role as presenter of the Sunday Game, which he has continued since 1984.

Hailing from Killererin, his journalism career started in the Tuam Herald in 1973 before he joined RTÉ Radio Sport in 1979. What many people won’t know about Michael is that he was an avid rally driver for many years. He actually led the Mayo rally for most of the race during an event in the mid-90s before being forced to retire due to mechanical problems outside Crossmolina.

“We are delighted that such a high profile personality as Michael Lyster will be joining us for this year’s Candlelight Ball,” commented chairperson of the organising committee, Caroline Costello.

“We know that Michael will add hugely to what promises to be an entertaining and fun night and we encourage people to get their tickets early to avoid disappointment. We look forward to welcoming Michael to Mayo and hearing more about his rallying days and other ties he has with Mayo,” Caroline added.

The Valentine’s Candlelight Ball takes place in Breaffy House Resort on Saturday, February 11, at 7 p.m., commencing with a champagne reception followed by gala dinner, raffle, auction and lots of prizes.

Tickets costing €50 are on sale now and are selling fast. Tickets can be purchased from Western Care headquarters, John Moore Road, Castlebar, Teresa Ward, development officer, (087) 2467857, or from committee members. A 10% discount applies when a table of 10 or more is purchased.

The 2017 committee are Caroline Costello, Barbara Flynn, Caroline Gordon, Lorraine Hall, Cora Mulroy, Dara Dunne, Helena Boylan, Henry McGlade, Naomi Tiernan, Orla Cunningham, Pauline Brennan, Steve O’Donnell, Ethna Doherty, Toni Bourke, Teresa Ward and Tom Collins.