By Dan Walsh
The first Pecker Dunne Festival is scheduled for next Saturday in St. Peter’s Square, Wexford town. Local hotels have noted an increase in visitors for the weekend.
“We have some great musicians from across Ireland coming down for a free open-air concert in the bandstand at 3.30pm on Saturday,” Wally O’ Neill, the owner of nearby Red Books and one of the festival organisers told WexfordLocal.com.
“Pecker’s son Stephen will be performing, as well as James Gallagher from the Dubliners Encore, John and Pip Murphy, Daithi and Rory Kavanagh, Na Buachaillí, the Wexford Traditional Singers, Senan Lillis and many more. All are coming together out of authentic respect for the music and legacy of the Pecker Dunne.”
A gathering of friends and family of Pecker, entitled ‘Memories of Pecker’ will take place at 2pm on Saturday in Red Books too. This event is open to the public and will feature many tales and recollections of Pecker.
“The whole festival has been put together in a matter of weeks,” said Mr O’Neill, who added; “Cllr Tom Forde had the vision to bring about a respectful festival in memory of Pecker. He put together a solid committee that includes folklorist Michael Fortune, traditional musician Matt Murphy and event organiser Melanie Cleary. There’s been support from Wexford County Council, local representatives Cllrs Aoife Rose O’Brien, Leonard Kelly, Jim Codd and Jackser Owens, local businesses and musicians.”
“It’s hugely positive for the town and highlights the rich local musical and cultural heritage at a time when positivity is needed. We hope the influx of visitors for this event will benefit the local economy and provide a launch-pad for an annual festival,” concluded Mr O’Neill.
WexfordLocal.com 