Baptism of ice for clergy

The reason is that several clergymen will taking the ‘Ice Bucket Challenge’ for charity, raising valuable funds for Cancer Research UK.

The baptism with a difference will take place as part of the annual Vintage Rally at the Church and the spectacle will unfold in the field beside the church. Among the stalls and attractions will be bouncy castles, magicians, exotic animals, a chainsaw carving demonstration, as well as displays of line dancing, an appearance by the talented Solus Dancers, hot and cold food stalls and fast food, as well as a greeting cards stand, bric-a-brak, and a wide range of home produce including jams, cakes and home baking.

Heading the challenge is singing Rector, Rev David McBeth, from Dungiven and Bovevagh Parish Churches, formerly of Glendermott Parish Church in the Waterside, who has thrown down the gauntlet to other clergy to get involved - and those from other denominations are also being collared to take part.

Guest of honour, who has also promised to take part and raise money for Cancer Research UK is television weatherman Frank Mitchell.

Asked how he managed to secure Frank Mitchell for the Ice Bucket Challenge, Rev McBeth said: “I phoned him on his radio show and he agreed to do it. He is also hoping to have it covered for television too.”

Rev McBeth continued: “The local Mayor of Limavady, Alan Robinson, and the deputy mayor in Londonderry, Gary Middleton, have also pledged to take part. I did not think it would take off quite this well, but I am also hoping that there is a really good turn out for the Vintage Rally and for this.

“Ultimately we are hoping to raise a large sum from the day, with all proceeds going to cancer Research UK,” said Rev McBeth,

“I have done it already and that’s how the idea for this fundraising event came about, because my wife, April, said to me about doing it for local charity. So we are looking for as many people in the community as possible to come out and support us and do it themselves,” said Rev McBeth, adding: “We are leaving out buckets so people who want to take part on the day can make a donation of £3 before taking part in the challenge themselves. Members of the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service are coming along to dunk us all with water and I am currrently in negotiations with the NIFRS Sub-Officer in Dungiven to arrange the details of who will be attending and what needs to be done.”