Pictured at the event is (l to r) Una McMahon-Beattie, Ulster University, Ann Drumm, James McGinn, General Manager, Europa Hotel, Kieran Drumm, Sean Drumm and Erica Ferguson, NI Transplant.

The hotel gives support to the fundraising efforts in memory of Matthew Drumm

The Europa Hotel in Belfast held a special event recently, in honour of a former staff member and GAA player, Matthew Drumm (22), who tragically lost his life on Christmas Eve, 2013.

Matthew, from Killyclogher in County Tyrone, was a popular staff member of the Europa Hotel. Members of both the hotel and his family were amongst those who attended the event, at which a new specially commissioned cycling jersey and student hospitality bursary, in association with Ulster University, were launched.

Mickey Harte, Manager of the Tyrone GAA Team, recently launched a new GAA Football jersey, in honour of Matthew’s short life, and in support of the ‘Miles for Matty’ fundraising campaign. As part of the ‘Miles for Matty’ campaign a major activity day will take place on May 21 in Omagh, where there will be a 60 mile cycle, a 10k fun run and a 5k walk which is open to the public.

James McGinn, General Manager, Europa Hotel, said: “Matthew was not just my relative, he was a truly valued member of our team, who is still so very missed by many of the hotel staff and customers. His tragic death however, has meant life for others as having joined the organ donor register, Matthew’s heart, kidneys, lungs, pancreas and liver were all donated to others. We are delighted that our fundraising efforts will help assist Northern Ireland Transplant’s great work.

“The proceeds of the GAA shirt, together with the cycling shirt, will raise funds to help support people and families who are affected by suicide. A bursary has also been created by Ulster University, at which Matthew was a student, in honour of his passion for the industry”, said James.

The family, with the help of the Europa, the university and the hospitality Industry, is hoping to raise awareness of organ donation, suicide amongst young men and raise funds for Northern Ireland Transplant.

James continued: “We also want to highlight the amazing work done by the Tara Centre and PATHS, both based in Omagh, which supports people in a number of ways including providing assistance to families and individuals bereaved by suicide and focussing on wellbeing and healthy mind and body through activities and groups. Matthew was studying International Hospitality Management at the Ulster University so it is fitting that they have created a bursary in his name.”

You can find out more about the events being planned in Matthew’s honour by searching for Facebook page, ‘Miles for Matty’.