Local nine-year-old's midnight Slieve Bloom climb for Banagher pool

Banagher native Conor Horn is embracing the force with his Slieve Bloom fundraiser in aid of the Banagher outdoor pool.

Aged just 9-years-old, Conor was inspired to raise money for the worthy community project after a host of local fundraisers and initiatives had taken place in recent months.

His mum, Barbara Horn, told the Offaly Independent he's "very upbeat and enthusiastic" about the challenge.

"It all started because I am taking part in a climb of Carrauntoohil in aid of the Banagher outdoor pool, and Conor decided he wanted to do his part as well. We were inspired by Star Wars a bit, because it is on May 4.

"The pool is a project Banagher will benefit from hugely, and everybody in the surrounding areas as well, and he is very upbeat and enthusiastic to be involved."

The young adventurer will begin his journey at dusk on May 3, and he will hike approximately 13.5 kilometers over the Slieve Bloom peaks to the Kinnitty finish line, arriving in the early hours on May 4.

Conor is well prepared for the climb, with his equipment including two head torches, and goodies to snack on along the way.

"We're incredibly proud of Conor," Barbara said. "He used his own initiative to think of a unique event, and to raise money for a cause that he cares about. He loves swimming, and the overnight hike, he came up with an event that was also an adventure!"

A GoFundMe page set up ahead of the challenge has raised over €2,500 to date, and the nine-year-old also has a little book where he's collecting donations in cash

"He's very excited to see all of the money raised, and he checks back every day to see the number rising. He's been quite successful so far, and is absolutely delighted to have raised such a huge amount.

"We want to thank everybody who has donated, we are just so grateful. The support from our local community, and even further, has been wonderful - because this is a great amenity that can be used year-round by people young and old. There are so many fundraisers in our community at the moment, so it's been a huge effort all around."

To donate to Conor's fundraiser, go to: https://www.gofundme.com/f/may-the-fourth-mountain-march