Daniel O’Donnell shows Garth how it’s done

Five concerts? Forget Garth Brooks — Daniel O’Donnell is your only man.

The country legend is packing them in this week in Killarney, where his five-night run at the INEC, Gleneagle Hotel, has been sold out since last Christmas.

A total of 10,000 fans from all around the country, as well as some from the US, Australia and Britain, are attending and giving a welcome boost to local tourism.

Hotels and B&Bs are benefiting from the singer’s only concerts in Ireland this year, apart from a recent performance in his native Donegal, with many fans opting to stay overnight and booking out nearly all available accommodation.

Each concert goes on for about three hours, with the laid-back crooner in no hurry to leave as he stays on afterwards to chat to his many admirers.

Gleneagle managing director Patrick O’Dono- ghue, who called Daniel one of the greatest entertainers to perform at the venue in its 50-year history, said he had a remarkable connection with his fans.

“His rapport with his fans is phenomenal and he has an amazing memory for names and faces,’’ said Mr O’Donoghue.

“He’s a fabulous entertainer who always gives value for money.’’

Women in the audiences outnumber men by an estimated three or four to one. To mark his contribution to tourism in Killarney over many years, Daniel, 52, will be inducted into the Order of Innisfallen at a ceremony in Muckross House today.

The singer, meanwhile, is to take an 18-month break from February 2015, but another five-night run at the INEC, where he invariably sells out, has been confirmed for August 2016.