Community to rally behind local family at special fundraiser in Athboy
The community of Athboy is coming together for a special cause on Sunday, 27th July 2025, as Mellowes Adventure and Childcare Centre hosts a Family Fun Day fundraiser in support of local father Oliver Bagnall and his four young children following the devastating loss of his wife, Michelle.
Michelle Bagnall passed away earlier this year after a brave battle with brain cancer. She was just 35 years old and leaves behind her husband Oliver and their four children: baby Nico (now seven months old), four-year-old twins Lucas and Elijah, and 10-year-old Joseph. Her sudden death in March has deeply impacted all who knew her, leaving Oliver to care for their young family full-time and unable to continue his self-employed work.
The upcoming Family Fun Day is not just a fundraiser but a celebration of Michelle’s life. It's a chance for the community to honour her memory and show support for the Bagnall family during this incredibly difficult time.
Mellowes Adventure and Childcare Centre, where Michelle and her children were well known, will host the event in two sessions: 11am–2pm and 3pm–6pm, offering a full day of entertainment for children and adults alike. The centre, located just outside Athboy, will be the setting for a packed programme of live music, games, and family activities.
Performers on the day include Matt Leavy, Tina Lynagh and Twist of Fate along with Brian Mullen Music. Families can enjoy a wide range of attractions, from bouncy castles and pedal go-karts to pirate ships, sand houses, mini golf, parachute games, and a mini disco with appearances from beloved Disney characters.
There will also be fun races, tug-of-war contests, spot prizes, and more. A great day of family entertainment is guaranteed and all funds raises will be going to a very worthy cause.
The goal is to raise €15,000 to help the Bagnalls with immediate expenses and provide some financial stability for the family. The organisers have already received great support from local businesses and they’re inviting more enterprises and community groups to come on board.
Tickets are priced at €10 for adults and €20 for children, with all proceeds going directly to the family. Donations can also be made online via the event’s official GoFundMe page: Mellowes Family Fun Day Fundraiser.
Organisers Steven Carthy and Deborah McGuinness are encouraging everyone to get involved, whether that is by attending, donating or simply spreading the word.
“This is about more than raising funds , it’s about surrounding this family with love, support, and the kind of strength only a close-knit community like ours can offer,” said Steven.
For further details contact the Mellowes team on 087 246 3928.