Singles asked to aid charity by joining Debra Ireland’s Dingle Mingle

Adventurous singles are being sought for charity Debra Ireland’s upcoming Dingle Mingle, an event with a hint of romance and the chance to rub shoulders with actor Robert Sheehan.

Active, eligible singles are asked to sign up for Debra Ireland’s three-day Kerry Challenge from June 17 to 19, where they will be joined by Love/Hate star Sheehan and his brother Brendan.

The challenge includes three days of trekking on the peninsula — 25km per day — followed by nights of fun and craic in lively Dingle pubs, while accommodation is in a four-star hotel.

“Debra Ireland needs our help so that they can continue to provide support services to patients and families living with EB,” said Robert.

“The Kerry Challenge is a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives, while meeting new friends and exploring Dingle’s great outdoors.”

The event costs €300 per person, which includes two nights’ accommodation in the Dingle Skellig Hotel, all meals and snacks, transport to and from the route each day, on-site physiotherapy and a celebratory dinner and prize-giving.

Participants are asked to raise a further €350 for the charity, which provides support services for those living with the rare, painful, and very distressing genetic skin condition epidermolysis bullosa (EB).

EB, sometimes known as butterfly skin, causes the skin layers and internal body linings to blister and wound at the slightest touch.

Currently there is no cure and the only form of treatment is constant painful bandaging of skin.

“This is a brilliant weekend for people who like meeting new people and we have reason to believe it is great for getting romances blossoming too,” said Debra’s head of fundraising Judith Gilsenan.

“Couples, singles, seniors, and young people are all welcome to join our 75km three-day trek, which is suitable for everyone from seasoned runners to first-time amblers.”

Teams and individuals can walk or run between 10km and 25km a day over two or three days on the peninsula’s beautiful but rugged terrain.

Debra’s patient ambassador, Emma Fogarty, from Laois, will also be attending this year’s Kerry Challenge.

www.debraireland.org, email [e-mail] or call [phone].