Charles Dooher.
By Paul McElwee
A CHARITY spin cycle event to support the family of Lifford man Charles Dooher has been hailed a success after raising more than €10,000.
The event, held at the Railway Gym in Lifford on Saturday, saw over 100 people take part in a 30-minute spin session, with donations pouring in throughout the day.
The fundraiser was organised by the Gamble family, owners of the gym, who count Charles as a dedicated member.
Alongside his girlfriend Charlotte and a friend, he had been a regular at the gym before he was assaulted in a brutal attack last month.
Mr Dooher was attacked at his home on Conneyburrow Road, Castlefinn, by five men wielding steel bats.
He was airlifted to Belfast’s Royal Victoria Hospital, where he remains in critical condition. His family and girlfriend have remained by his side throughout his harrowing ordeal.
Keith ‘Bear’ Gamble, one of the event’s organisers, described the day as a resounding success.
“We had 51 sponsorship sheets printed, and they flew out the door. But it wasn’t just about those who signed up in advance – people walked in off the street to donate and hop on a bike to do their 30 minutes.”
Among those attending were Charles’ sister, his girlfriend Charlotte, and the couple’s new puppy, which they had purchased just a week before the attack.
Adding to the event’s momentum, popular TikTok personalities Rab, Stratto, and Warner made an appearance, helping to further boost awareness and donations.
“The family is overwhelmed by the community’s response,” Mr Gamble continued.
“They’re unable to work right now as they spend all their time with Charles, so any financial support is hugely appreciated. But what means the most to them is seeing the community come together, raising awareness about the attack, and showing their solidarity. It really means so much at this terrible time.”
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