In pictures: Cork's Darkness into Light the ‘biggest in years’

CROWDS gathered at various locations across Cork in the early hours of Saturday to participate in the annual Darkness into Light events in aid of Pieta.

Darkness into Light has now become a global movement, dedicated to raising vital funds for Pieta’s life-saving services.

Pieta provides a range of services nationally to people who are experiencing thoughts of suicide, those who engage in self-harm, and those bereaved by suicide.

All of the services are provided free of charge, and no referral is needed.

Across the city and county, Cork again showed its support for Darkness into Light this year.

In the city, the Darkness into Light 5km walk, which started and finished at UCC, drew the largest crowd in years, according to UCC committee member Mick Finn.

“Thousands walked in Cork for Darkness into Light for Pieta at UCC, in what was one of the most stunning mornings ever for the event,” he told The Echo.

“People seemed to have enjoyed the event which definitely was the biggest in years.”

The Independent councillor and former Lord Mayor thanked all those who took part or who assisted in any way in running the event.

Meanwhile, a Darkness into Light event that had previously taken place in Ballyvolane resumed this year following a hiatus since the pandemic.

“Over 300 attended the Cork northside [event] at Glen Rovers Hurling Club after a five-year break,” said committee member John Maher.

“It was fantastic to see, and the atmosphere was superb. The committee are brilliant and we’ve learnt so much in the build-up to this event, and we are planning for 2025 already.

“It was lovely to see the crowds pass through Ballyvolane, Mayfield, the Glen, Blackpool and Dublin Hill, supporting each other and remembering loved ones. Thank you to all who supported the event,” Mr Maher, who is also a Labour Party councillor, added.

In total, 30 Darkness into Light events took place in Cork — including in Ballincollig, Blarney, Youghal, Cobh, and Fountainstown.

To avail of Pieta’s services, visit https://www.pieta.ie/ or call 0818 111 126.