Lord of the Dance
Dermot O'Leary 'honoured' to become patron of London Irish Centre
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Dermot O'Leary 'honoured' to become patron of London Irish Centre

POPULAR TV personality Dermot O’Leary has said he is honoured to become patron of the London Irish Centre, in a role that will help to promote Irish culture in the capital.

The former X Factor host, whose parents hail from Co. Wexford, will work with the committee in supporting the Camden centre’s efforts to enable people to access services that include advice sessions, IT lessons and volunteering opportunites.

“It's a big honour for me to become a patron of the LIC,” O’Leary said. “I'm very proud of my Irish heritage, my parents were part of the post war generation of immigrants who came to London to find a new life, so the London Irish community is one that is very close to my heart.

“I'm looking forward to helping LIC both promote Irish culture and to help them with their equally important role of helping the vulnerable in the local community.”

Sean Kennedy, Chair of the London Irish Centre, the oldest and largest Irish charity outside of Ireland, said he was absolutely delighted to welcome O’Leary as patron of the organisation.

“He will work with us in our role of promoting the very best in Irish arts and culture and ensuring that those Irish in London who need help are supported and able to access the services they need and deserve,” he said.

The London Irish Centre also has plans to substantially increase its charitable impact on the community next year, of which O’Leary will have a role.