There’s only love at launch of charity walk

THERE was only love and no hate as stars of the hit RTÃ? crime drama, Aoibhinn McGinnity and Peter Coonan, helped launch Pieta House’s nationwide

‘Darkness into Light’ event last week.

The actors proved to be nothing like their characters Trish and Fran in the top TV show as they took time out from their first week back filming the much-anticipated new series to support the annual fundraising walk.

Run with support from Electric Ireland, the event will take place in two Dublin locations on May 11.

Now in its fifth year, Darkness into Light will be held in the Phoenix Park but due to the huge numbers taking part there will also be a new Dublin location this year – Newbridge House Demense in North County Dublin.

Darkness into Light is a unique event which begins at 4am with thousands of people gathering in darkness at locations across Ireland to walk or run the 5km route as dawn is breaking.

Following a record turnout of 15,000 people last year in 14 counties, this year’s Darkness into Light walk will take place at 20 locations nationwide.

“ESB have been great supporters of Pieta House’s work from the very beginning and we’re really excited to have their energy supply business Electric Ireland on board as the main sponsor of Darkness into Light this year,

? said Joan Freeman, founder and CEO of Pieta House.

“Darkness into Light represents hope and solidarity, and is symbolic of the work that we do. We bring people from darkness back into the light. We want to make 2013 the year that we halt the rise of suicide in Ireland and we’re doing all that we can to make this happen.

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A unique experience for participants, Darkness into Light is also the most vital component of Pieta House’s fundraising calendar.

As demand for Pieta House’s service continues to grow and with more than 80 per cent of the organisation’s income depending on public donations, the funds raised during Darkness into Light are essential for Pieta House to continue to provide a free support service for the increasing numbers seeking help.

“At Electric Ireland, we understand the importance of bringing light into Ireland’s homes and communities, which is why we’re proud to support Pieta House’s Darkness into Light event,

? said Brid Horan, Executive Director of Electric Ireland.

“Sadly suicide remains a serious issue in Ireland today and we’re pleased to play a small part in raising awareness by supporting this worthwhile nationwide initiative. Darkness into Light is deeply embedded in towns across Ireland and it’s become an annual gathering where communities come together to show solidarity with others, support one another and, of course, to enjoy the fresh morning air.

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Pieta House will open four new crisis centres this year in Cork, Galway, Tipperary and Kerry and next month it will launch a major new nationwide campaign aimed at reducing the rate of male suicide.

Registration for Darkness into Light is available online now at www.pieta.ie.