Around £21,000 was raised for Lighthouse Charity at the annual Northern Ireland Lunch, held at Titanic Belfast on September 18, bringing together supporters from across the construction industry for an afternoon of connection and fundraising.
Guests enjoyed a drinks reception, three-course lunch and fundraising raffle, with entertainment provided by host. Local comedian and actor Tim McGarry, singer Eiméar Crealey and musicians Matthew Hunter and Scott Wilson, helping to create a lively and memorable atmosphere.
Lighthouse Charity CEO Sarah Bolton, NI & Ireland West Partnership Manager Brian Shanks and NI Regional Chair Brendan Crealey addressed attendees, highlighting the charity’s services and the support delivered locally.
As well as a fireside chat with Laura McCooey from Elliotts, Debbie Eve from Gilbert-Ash and Jonny Fitzpatrick from Lighthouse Charity’s Make It Visible team, the event included a panel discussion.
Former Irish hockey international Matthew Bell, Portadown FC player Aaron Traynor, solicitor and former footballer Feargal Logan and content creator Bernadette Hagans discussed their own experiences of overcoming health and addiction challenges. Their honest and inspiring contributions were among the highlights of the afternoon, resonating strongly with guests and reinforcing the importance of starting a conversation and seeking support at an early stage.
Brendan Crealey, Chair of the Lighthouse Charity NI region said, “We are absolutely delighted with the success of our 2026 lunch event.
This year’s event saw our largest turnout of local support and also the largest amount of money raised which is fantastic.
Plans for a bigger and better event in 2027 are already well underway”.
While Lighthouse Charity is celebrating its 70th anniversary in 2026, the Northern Ireland Regional Committee which reformed just a few years ago, continues to strengthen the charity’s presence across the region and make a meaningful difference to the lives of those working in construction. This amazing event would not take place without their energy, passion and commitment.
Thank you to everyone who donated raffle prizes, supported the event on the day and to our key event sponsors;
Title Sponsor – DLJ Water – Title Sponsor
Drinks Reception Sponsor – Northstone
Gold Sponsors – Circet and Graham
Silver Sponsor- Abbey Autoline
Bronze Sponsors – Gibson Bros, Deane Public Works, Westport Equipment and JP Corry
Media Partner – NI Builder
