The by-now-legendary Cheerios Childline concert took place at The Point yesterday, and in time honoured tradition, the after show party was the most coveted invite in Dublin last night. There was a buzz of paparazzi and waiting fans outside Lillies, the likes of which have never been seen before.
The event, which is the brainchild of Caroline Downey, wife of MCD owner Denis Desmond, has raised millions of Euro over the year's and is always supported by a host of top celebrities. This year was no different, with most of the stars popping in to Lillies to sample the hospitality of the top club.
Among those I spotted were Westlife, Louis Walsh and Brian Lynch, X-factor winner Shayne Ward, TV presenters Alan Hughes and Derek Mooney, Niall McCrudden, Karl Broderick, Lee Ryan and Simon Webb. Also there were Anna Lavery and Ann O'Connell, Liberty X, Irish boyband ZOO, Keith Duffy and Stephen Gately (who both presented the show) and band of the moment Son of Dork.
Westlife wives Georgina Aherne and Gillian Filan were looking fab, as was Lynda Magan of girl group Nikel & Dime. Sinead Ryan and Joanne Byrne were busy bees on the night, but were ably assisted by Gemma Kenny, the newest recruit to their PR firm.
George McMahon was there with his stunning girlfriend Linsey Cowap, as was Denise McCormack, Brendan O'Connor, Tommy Gallagher, Elisabeth Fitzpatrick and Toni Wall.
Without a doubt the highlight of the evening was the heated debate / blazing row that Shane Filan and singer Rowetta had. In full view of all and sundry she screamed at him and security had to eventually intervene. Mad as a bag of cats, she then stormed back to her hotel as she was not allowed into the VIP area.
It was like being in a real life episode of Celebrity Death Match. Showbiz correspondent Paul Martin was on hand to witness the fracas, so read all about in tomorrow's Irish Daily Mirror.
I can see the headline now: "SHANE GETS IN A ROW-ETTA".
