Kilbane concert to benefit Duleek developments

Country and Gospel singer James Kilbane will take his uplifting and very enjoyable Country Gospel concert to St Cianans Church, Duleek on Sunday 2nd October at 8pm. The concert is in association with Duleek Development Association and is supporting local community and parish development in St Cianan's Church and also the development of Duleek Courthouse. Both St Cianan's Church and the courthouse have been community focus points of the local Duleek community for nearly 200 years. Duleek is an area steeped in the religious history from the early church in Ireland. It was the first stone church in Ireland. The present St Cianan's Church was built in 1812 on the original old church. In 2012 the church will celebrate 200 years. The present building has seen several periods of improvement including work in 1869, and it was extended in 1966 to cope with the enlarged congregations. Further refurbishment was carried out in 1989 with work now needed for the church's bicentenary celebrations in 2012. The Duleek Courthouse was originally constructed in 1838. The building served as the local courthouse until 1961 when it was taken over my Meath County Council and then extensions were added in the 1960s and 1970s to the building. It was then used as a public library until 1999 when the library moved to the new local civic office and since then the courthouse has been vacant since. Since 2004 Meath County Council initiated the restoration of the building. With the involvement of the Duleek Development Association part of the proceeds will assist with the current Courthouse development where it is planned to develop meeting rooms, a heritage centre and concert facilities, once again making the Duleek Courthouse a focus point for the local community. Many will all be familiar with James Kilbane from his early days on the RTE television show 'You're A Star' and also with his many Irish television and satellite appearances to millions of viewers across America and the world. Since 2004, James has also become a multi platinum selling recording artist singing many genres but in particular his mix of Country Gospel music that is a familiar sound across the country on radio and in many homes. James continues to tour regularly across Ireland and also performs in America with his popular brand of easy listening music. James is performing in Duleek as part of his current autumn run of concerts working with community groups and organisations. He is also completing his new album due for release in 2012. On 2nd October in Duleek, James will be performing songs from his forthcoming album as well as some recent releases and material from his previous eight albums. Kilbane's home grown style attracts all age groups and people from every walk of life. His special guest will be singer Hanna O'Brien from Drogheda who is becoming a popular young singer across Louth and Meath and is a member of the Lourdes Youth Choir. Tickets are available across the region including The Coffee Trailer in Drogheda, Jack Kieran Shoes and Sports shop in Navan or from the Duleek Parish office, the Duleek Development Association or direct Noel at (086) 104 5125. Concert doors are at 7.30pm and concert starts at 8pm. All are welcome and all support to the event will be appreciated.