Don’t be concerned - Nick’s ready

NICK Silver is hoping that the plate of steak and potatoes he had last night will be enough to keep him going when he joins a record number of people fasting for Concern throughout the country today.

Concern is hoping the nationwide fast will break last year’s record by raising more than €2 million for people in 27 of the world’s poorest countries.

Nick, aged 53, a steel fabricator from Ballintubber, Co Roscommon, and three of his workmates, involved in the construction of apartments and a car park in Adelaide Square, Dublin, will only let water pass their lips today.

Today’s fast will not be easy for Nick who, at 6’2” and 17 stone, loves his food. He planned to have a big plate of steak and potatoes and a few drinks last night “and that will do me until the 24 hours are up”.

There are 4,500 people fasting for the first time and almost 50% of secondary schools are involved in fasting and devising some very unusual fund-raising events.

Molly Morrison of Concern said this year it was all about giving up something different for 24 hours.

“Whether it’s food or just sweets, the television or PlayStation - a small sacrifice...can make such a difference to some of the world’s neediest people,” she said.