Some people in our community quietly inspire others every single day, and Emma Rainey is certainly one of them.

Many people will recognise Emma from around Coleraine. She has brought smiles to countless faces as one of Coleraine Connect's much-loved seasonal characters and as part of our promotional team at town centre events. Always full of energy, positivity and kindness, Emma has spent years helping others and bringing joy to the community.

What makes her dedication even more remarkable is that Emma is currently living with Stage 4 terminal cancer.

Despite facing her own challenges, she continues to devote her time and energy to supporting others, and on Saturday, June 27, she is inviting everyone to come together for a very special evening.

Emma’s dance group, Dance to Enhance will host a Mardi Gras Carnival Night at Coleraine Football Club, with doors opening at 7pm.

The evening promises plenty of entertainment, including spectacular performances from Dance to Enhance, live music from Nora Jane Music, a raffle and lots of Mardi Gras fun and colour.

The event is raising funds for Cancer Friends Causeway Coast, a local organisation that supports anyone affected by cancer in the local Causeway area. They provide a range of well-being activities and also emotional support to individuals and families at any point in their cancer journey.

Adding to the night's fundraising efforts will be a very special challenge involving local man Clarke McCormick from Dark Star Tattoo.

Clarke has been growing his hair and beard for six years and has been collecting sponsorship for Macmillan Cancer Support and Pretty in Pink.

During the event, guests will have the opportunity to take part in a unique fundraiser as Clarke's hair is plaited and people can make a donation to cut off a plait. His hair will then be donated to The Little Princess Trust to help create wigs for children and young people who have lost their hair through cancer treatment.

The theme of the evening is Mardi Gras, chosen as a reminder to celebrate life, embrace colour and make the most of every moment. Every guest will receive their own Mardi Gras beads on arrival and is encouraged to join in the carnival spirit.

Emma's message is simple: life is precious, and every day is worth celebrating. If ever there was an event that deserves the support of the community, this is it.

Ticket Information

Tickets are £15 and are available from:

• Dark Star Tattoo, Coleraine

• Coleraine Social Club

• Cancer Friends Causeway Coast Hub, Ballymoney

• By contacting the Dance to Enhance Facebook page

Come along, wear your brightest colours, celebrate life and help make a difference.