Derek Ryan to perform gig in aid of his old school Drumphea NS

FAMED Carlow singer-songwriter Derek Ryan will perform a special once-off concert in aid of his old school, Drumphea National School.

Taking place at The Stephouse Hotel in Borris, the gig will feature Derek playing an acoustic set on guitar, accompanied by musicians Ray McLoughlin and Kane O’Rourke Derek, originally from Garryhill, is best known for being a former member of the Irish boy band D-Side, which had four singles in the Ireland and UK top ten in the early 2000s.

He generously offered to launch his national tour by donating the proceeds of his first gig to Drumphea National School Parents’ Association.

They raise money throughout the school year to provide classroom materials like science equipment, toys, stationary and an interactive white board. They also cover the costs of various extra-curricular activities like buses for trips and fees for sports competitions like Cumann na mBunscol, so that all pupils can participate.

Derek returned to Drumphea NS last week to play a few songs and talk to the children about his life as a musician, which the youngsters were delighted with!

Derek’s gig is on Friday 28 November with doors opening at 7.30pm with the concert itself starting at 8pm.

Tickets for the Borris concert are currently sold out but people do have the option of putting themselves on the waiting list.