A DJ has invited adults with additional needs to get involved in a new inclusive night.
The ‘Shadows’ club night has been held four times since October last year.
The next event takes place next week from 8pm to 11pm at Nortel Social Club.
Willie McKee, from Rathcoole, told Belfast Live that his idea came after he DJd at an 18th for a local resident.
He said: “Three years ago I was asked to DJ for a lad called Carter Logan’s 18th birthday party. Carter has Down’s Syndrome and I had an absolute ball playing for him and his pals. Shortly after I DJd at Hill Croft school’s formal and met a lot of the same kids - so from there the seed was planted.
“Last year I DJd at Daryll Hall and his mum Sonya’s joint birthday parties. Daryll has additional needs.
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“I asked Sonya if she thought a night specifically for Daryll and young people like him would work and she was up for it, spreading the word to other groups and individuals.
"I know there are other nights and I check before putting an event on so there isn’t a clash and the unique thing about Shadows is that it’s generally on a weekend night.”
The events are held at the Nortel Club off the Doagh Road.
Willie said: “The Nortel Club’s committee back me 100% and the staff are great also. Lesley-Anne, the bar manager, loves helping out and I can’t speak highly enough of everyone in Nortel. The night also comes under the umbrella of the Rathcoole Regeneration group who help out and offer advice.
“Both carers and young adults always have a great time.”
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The next event takes place on Thursday, April 18, at the Nortel Social Club and is for over 18s.
Willie added: “Although this one is a Thursday night we aim to ideally run the night on a Friday. We are building a steady crowd and hope to build.”
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