Awards night is a starry affair.

THE Midlands Radio 103 awards night was held in the Radisson Hotel in Athlone on Monday night. A fine crowd was present for the show which featured many well known names from the showbiz scene including Mick Flavin, Tony Allen, Patrick Feeney, Shaun Loughrey, the Conquerors, Big Chief (Noel Brady), Donna and Joseph McCaul, Keith McDonald, Simon Casey and Evan O'Donnell and new four-piece celtic girl group, Eire.

Ronan Collins from RTE also rendered a song while Ben Dolan, brother of Joe, showed just how good a country singer he is with his version of Squaws Along The Yukon.

There was a special presentation to the Carroll family from Athlone in appreciation of the late Doc Carroll's (Old Man Trouble) contribution to the showband and music scene over many years. Former band member Aidan Grehan joined in the tributes.

Tony Maher and Frankie Colohan of the Conquerors were the recipients of a presentation to mark their contribution to record productions with many artists over many years. From the world of radio came Les Vickers from Dublin (who accepted awards on behalf of Daniel O'Donnell and Mary Duff) as well as Mary Behan from Tipp Mid West Radio while there was a special round of applause for the popular Nellie from Midlands Radio. Michael Coffey from Tipp FM was also in Athlone for the show. The Duets from Mayo were others present for the big night in the Radisson. The show, which was broadcast live on Midlands Radio, was hosted by Joe Cooney and Ricey Scully and there were special words of thanks for Dessie, Peter (Fish) and Catherine who put so much effort behind organising the event

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ARTISTS: Shaun Loughrey and Patrick Feeney