All About Cork: Concert hits right chord with Cairde social club members

Members of Cairde social club recently enjoyed a concert performed by past winners of the popular Over 60s Talent Competition at Brú Columbanus, Cardinal Way, in Wilton, to mark 10 years of the club.

Paddy O’Brien, who organises these concerts, said they were delighted to be there to mark the 10th anniversary of the social group.

The Over 60s concert group who entertained Cairde members included past winners and finalists of the talent competition, founded by Mr O’Brien in 1977 to combat loneliness.

Mr O’Brien said that many people present at the concert at Brú Columbanus were supporters of the competition for years.

“It was like a reunion of all the Over 60s people because we had the artists performing and then the people who were present and supporters down through the years, many of whom were there since the beginning at Cork Opera House before we went to the City Hall years later,” he said.

“It was a lovely atmosphere there.”

Mr O’Brien said the principal reason that Cairde was founded 10 years ago was to combat loneliness and that many members of the group who live alone look forward to the weekly meeting at Brú Columbanus.

“When I started the Over 60s in 1977, it was for one reason alone and that was to combat loneliness and I’m glad to see this organisation doing the same thing,” said Mr O’Brien.

Cairde social secretary Teresa Quinn said: “We do as much as we can for our members. At these weekly meetings, great friendships are formed and we are like an extended family, always caring and looking out for each other.

“Cairde group go to various locations every year and recently took a tour of the Midleton Distillery followed by a trip to Garryvoe, Ballycotton, and Castlemartyr. We also visit different garden centres throughout the country and have mystery bus tours.”

Ms Quinn said that anyone wishing to get involved with Cairdre can call any Thursday to Brú Columbanus in Wilton between 2.30pm and 4.30pm.

Mr O’Brien encouraged people to get involved in social groups for the elderly which, he said, can help those who may be feeling particularly lonely.

“I think there are lots of other areas around the country that could do the same thing by starting a simple committee like the Cairdre group, meet once a week, and look out for people.

“It’s working greatly and many friendships have been formed. They first meet as strangers but there are many who build up those new friendships and then go and do their own things together — they do their shopping, go for a coffee, go for a walk — which is great and it’s a brilliant way to meet people.

“Teresa and her committee have to be admired and congratulated for the wonderful work they do.”

Have Bishopstown news to share? Contact breda.graham@theecho.ie