Mayo entrepreneur wins €15k bursary on the Late Late Show

Mayo entrepreneur Darren Forde has won a €15,000 bursary on the Late Late Show.

The Hollymount-based businessman, the founder of Eco-Powered Cabinets Limited, was one of those selected for the SuperValu-sponsored award following his presentation live the RTÉ One programme last night.

Darren made headlines last June when two of his company's solar-powered defibrillators were installed on Croagh Patrick for pilgrims and other climbers who suffer heart attacks on the holy mountain.

There have been three cardiac events on the Reek over the past three years with two people sadly passing away as a result.

It was during a climb of Croagh Patrick with his family earlier in the year that Darren noted the lack of lack of life-saving defibrillators at higher altitude.

Now his solar-powered units, put in place with the generous support of local sponsors, can deliver an electric current to the heart for those who may suffer a heart attack.

Solar-powered packs remain fully charged despite the lack of electricity on the mountain.

One of the defibrillators is located on the shoulder, just before the cone of Croagh Patrick, and the other is in place at the chapel on the summit.

Congratulations to him on his success.

Mayo County Councillor Ger Deere said everyone from the county watching last night's programme were proud of the Hollymount man and his achievements.