Eight couples say ‘I do’ all over again to raise funds for orphanage

WITH more than 155 years of marriage between them, eight couples walked down the aisle for the second time yesterday.

The couples, from the Askeaton area, also joined a fundraising effort for orphans in Moldova on their repeat big day.

Some came in limos, others in vintage cars. John and Linda Walsh, who have been married for 39 years, came by pony and trap.

And all eight couples got to Askeaton parish church on time.

The renewal of the vows ceremony was carried out by parish priest Fr Sean Liston PP.

The couples were Noel and Kitty O’Kane, Linda and John Walsh, Jimmy and Aileen Hennessy, Paul and Iona Madigan, Gerard and Laura Kearns, Michael and Sharon Moore, Willie and Galina Lonergan, and Donie and Patricia Ahern.

The longest married were Noel and Kitty O’Kane, who tied the knot 48 years ago.

After the ceremony the couples went to the local community centre for a party attended by many guests.

The ceremony has been used also to raise funds for an orphanage in Moldova.

Linda Walsh will travel there in a few weeks’ time with Breda Purcell, also from Askeaton, and they will spend time working in the orphanage.

Breda said: “One of my children is autistic and people have been great to us over the years and this is my way of saying thanks by doing something for others who are in not very good circumstances.”

It is hoped the renewal of vows ceremony will become an annual event in Askeaton.