Girls Just Wanna Have Fun charity weekend celebrates its 8th year

Helen Wycherley of the Celtic Ross with beauty therapist Louise O’Regan, Carrie McKeown of the What the Frock? boutique and Ciara Wilson of The Salon Shop getting ready for the Girls Just Wanna Have Fun weekend in aid of the Irish Cancer Society, which will take place in Rosscarbery in October. (Photo: Miki Barlok)

THE annual Girls Just Wanna Have Fun weekend in aid of Action Breast Cancer takes place at the Celtic Ross Hotel in West Cork from October 2nd- 4th. Now in its eighth year, the weekend in Rosscarbery offers women of all ages the perfect escape – a time to chill and unwind with fun, relaxation and pampering, while benefitting a charity close to many people’s hearts.

‘The weekend is the perfect excuse for sisters, daughters, mums, best friends and school friends to clear their diaries and head to Rosscarbery for what we guarantee will be a fun-filled indulgent weekend,’ said Celtic Ross Hotel owner Helen Wycherley.

Celtic Ross beauty therapist Louise O’Regan will join Ciara Wilson of The Salon Shop and Carrie McKeown, Southern Star beauty columnist and What the Frock? boutique owner, to ensure that every single woman will be thoroughly spoilt.

The weekend takes place during Breast Cancer Awareness Month and raises money for the free services that the Irish Cancer Society’s Action Breast Cancer programme offers.

‘One in 10 Irish women have a chance of developing breast cancer during their lifetime,’ according to Sinead O’Keeffe, a community fundraiser with the Irish Cancer Society. ‘The weekend, not only raises vital funds so we can maintain the level of service that is vitally needed, but also raises awareness of breast cancer and other cancers in women.’

The weekend is packed with activities and the women can do as much or as little as they like. There will be aqua aerobics, relaxing massages, cooking demos, wine tasting, beauty therapies and long walks on the nearby strands. Other plans for the weekend include pilates, yoga, zumba dancing, bingo, pink afternoon tea, treasure hunts, kayaking, crazy golf and more.

There is also a glamorous banquet on the Saturday night with a champagne reception and a Best Dressed ‘Pink’ Ladies competition. There will be dancing til late with Route 66. Executive head chef Graeme Campbell and head chef Alex Petit will showcase the finest of West Cork produce during a five-course banquet.

Before departing for home on the final day, there will be time for a brisk walk on the spectacular Warren beach, and over the cliff tops to Owenahincha strand.

To date, the weekend has raised nearly €55,000 for the Irish Cancer Society. The hotel is the ideal location for such an event, as it features a 15m indoor pool, bubble pool, steam room, sauna and gym. The Holistic Suite provides a selection of beauty and massage treatments.

The weekend costs €189 per person sharing, including two nights B&B, champagne banquet on the Saturday night, a mini facial or massage, and all activities. For more see www.celticrosshotel.com