All bets were on last Saturday night, as patrons flocked to Jackie O'Brien's in Mitchelstown to suport Marymount Hospice through 'Drive to Survive' for a great night of racing.

Run with the assistance of Emerald Race Nights, the night was a great success, as it saw the Mitchelstown branch of Drive to Survive raise €12,000 'and still counting' for Marymount Hospice.

Speaking on behalf of the committee, Liam O'Grady said that they would like to sincerely thank everyone who supported the event, everyone who sponsored the night, bought horses or gave donations.

"We are forever grateful. Even though we currently live in tough times, to say that people's generosity on the night was astonishing would be an understatement.

"A special word of thanks for Mary, Aidan and Willie O'Brien for all their support. Thanks also to the fantastic Maurice Walsh who entertained the whole pub with his unique MC style which ensured that everyone had a great night. Also to the legend that is DJ Pat Ronan thanks so much. Thanks also to The Avondhu for helping to promote our event.

"From the first meeting we set our target at €10,000 and at the time of going to press we have a running figure of €12,000. With money still coming in we would hope to exceed €13,000 and we would hope to have a final figure in two weeks time," Liam added.

MC for the night was Maurice Walsh, while music was provided by Pat Ronan. Chairman of Drive to Survive Dana Gallahue told The Avondhu that the success of this event just shows how much people can achieve. He added that three or four other branches have been set up in the past week, as people want to do all they can to support the campaign which aims to raise €1 million for Irish hospices in memory of John Gallahue.

"The night was electric and the atmosphere was out of this world. It was run very professionally and Maurice Walsh was very good as the MC - I'm overwhelmed by people's generosity," Dan said.

Throughout the night, as people placed their bets and the lucky ones pocketed their winnings, there were also games for spot prizes, music, raffles and food.

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