Annual charity fundraiser ‘Niall-Fest’ to return to Irlam this February

Music lovers are invited to gather in Irlam this February for the annual Niall-Fest charity fundraiser.

The  Catholic Club is hoping to welcome as many people as possible for the musical event dedicated to Niall Page, who died in February 2011 – two days before his 18th birthday.

Six bands will be performing on February 22 in his memory while also raising money for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).

The festival, now in its 12th year, celebrates Niall’s life; his love for music, and the lasting impact he had – and is still having  – on the community around him.

The event was originally organised by Niall’s bandmates, Richard and Elliot, who worked closely with promoters to eventually put on a show in his name.

The name ‘Niall-Fest’ was suggested by Niall’s mother Janet Page, 58, who said: “He was a massive character in the community. Everyone loved him.

“Even now when we go to Niall-Fest, all his friends from school still turn up — and they’re all grown up, and are 32 with kids now. It’s bizarre.”

She continued: “They’re not even into heavy rock and metal like Niall was, but they still even come with their kids and their little earmuffs. It’s like a big family thing.”

The annual event has raised more than £7,000 for an array of causes, including Help for Heroes, the Police Benevolent Fund, Alzheimer’s and dementia charities and this year the RNLI.

Niall-Fest has also provided three new defibrillators in the area and music equipment for Irlam High School.

The event provides a special place for new up-and-coming bands and solo artists to showcase their talents.

This year’s event will see six bands perform with We Three Kings headlining.

Drummer Peter Furler said: “It’s a hometown gig for me, so it makes it even more special!”

Niall-Fest will take place at The Catholic Club on Liverpool Road, on February 22 from 5pm.

Those who wish to attend can purchase tickets online for £6, or at the door for £7 – and can find more information here. 

And bands who wish to apply for the 2026 edition of Niall-Fest can do so here