A NIGHT of disaster was prevented by none other than Damien Dempsey over the weekend, when he saved a young man from potentially drowning in the Slaney.
Dempsey was headline act at the Big Red Barn at the Strawberry Fest on Sunday night, but before his successful performance, some drama unfolded at the river.
Well-known New Ross man, Mark Ronan, who recently retired from his local fire service after 27 years, was on the scene when the incident took place.
Mr. Ronan said he was walking down the Promenade as his wife, son and his son’s partner enjoyed the nearby stalls.
He was glancing out onto the river when he spotted two young men, who he estimates were aged between 18-22, out in the water.
“One seemed to be going under, while the other guy pulled him up; both seemed like they couldn’t swim too well,” Mr. Ronan commented.
When he felt that the “situation was developing into something worse”, he began to seek help.
Mr. Ronan called out “can anyone swim”, when suddenly a tall figure who he “kind of recognised” appeared.
Later realising that it was Damien Dempsey, he said the musician promptly launched into action.
“He had what looked like a blanket or sheet in his hand, and was very cool about the whole thing. He took his shoes off, climbed down the embankment and swam over to the guy in difficulty,
“He handed him the blanket and towed him in, while the other lad made his own way back. The fellow who had to be rescued was a bit sheepish looking and Damien Dempsey came out of the water, picked up his shoes – cool as you like! – and walked off with the water dripping off him. He was very professional with what he done.”
Mr. Ronan said he couldn’t believe it when he realised the famous singer had just carried out such a “great act of heroism”:
“I was absolutely amazed. He didn’t look for any pats on the back from anyone, he just headed about his business. It was a huge act of bravery.

For full Strawberry Fest coverage, see this week’s Echo.