Stars jump in honour of Donal’s charity

Celebrities threw caution to the wind at the weekend to raise money for charity in honour of campaigning teenager Donal Walsh.

TV3 presenter Sinead Desmond and winner of The Voice Keith Hanley jumped 160ft from a high-rise crane to raise funds for Crumlin Children’s Hospital.

Coming back down to earth, Sinead, of Ireland AM, said: “I enjoyed it. It was a great buzz.”

Keith added: “It was fair windy up there, but once we got over it, it was great.”

The event, organised by Galbally Rugby Club in Limerick, was held in memory of Donal Walsh, who was recognised nationally as he campaigned against teenage suicide while battling cancer. The 16-year-old passed away last month in his native Kerry.

Donal’s father Fionnbar also attended the event.

Speaking before his jump, Hanley said he was nervous.

“A lot of my family are from the area and Galbally is only over the road. When the organisers approached me I was delighted to help out.

“It’s for a brilliant cause. I’m getting a chance to meet Donal’s dad too which I want to do.”

Pop star Keith, who is planning on releasing his first single in a few weeks time has always held charity organisation close to his heart.

“I work in St Josephs Foundation looking after people with special needs. It’s a school based in Charleville [Co Cork]. I’ve said to my record label they have to give me at least one or two days off every week to go back down there. The centre keeps me grounded.”

He promised his fan base he will also be releasing his debut album in September.

He described the sound as a mix of pop and soul.

“Something you can dance to,” he said.