I met Mark and his amazing dippers for the first time this Monday in Doorly Park. On this episode he shares with us where he got the idea for the fundraiser and why he is passionate about the work the Northwest Stop provide for the community. 

This is a charity who provide FREE COUNSELLING with QUALIFIED COUNSELLORS to those who are suffering from their mental health. If you or someone you know needs their services then contact 086 7772009. 

Here is some more about Mark and some of his story of life in Sligo.

Are you a Sligo Native? If no what is the story of how you moved here?: 
Yes, born in Sligo and reared in Strandhill.

What do you love about living in Sligo?: 
The people, the mountains, Lakes, Sea and overall beauty of it. The fact that if you stand in the middle of main street in the town you are no more than 10 -12 minutes from a Beach, Mountain, Lake , Forrest etc. Very few counties in Ireland can say that.

If you could wave a magic wand what would you fix or bring to Sligo ie. facilities, shops, restaurants, culture/arts?: 
It would be great to see all the vacant properties being utilised better, businesses, housing etc.

What are you looking forward to in the future in your personal and professional life?: 
In the future I look forward to getting more events of the ground which bring people/ communities together. I really enjoy coming up with ideas for challenges and then seeing them come to fruition through the efforts of everyone working together. There is a massive sense of camaraderie when a group are working towards a collective goal. The more extreme or different the goal is, the better the craic, banter and fun it is. It is a powerful way for people to raise funds for charity.
Professionally I am currently working with TUSLA with children in care and I am enjoying this role .

What are your must do Sligo recommendations? Restaurants/Walks etc.: 
The walk up Knocknarea (up the steps). The Killaspugbrone loop. There are some lovely beaches and swimmers /dippers are spoiled for choice.The Gleniff Horse Shoe. So many cafés and restaurants I love. First of all Blend in O Connell Street, it's only opened 6 weeks but the owner used to have the Gallery Cafe. Top class coffee and sandwiches. Then the cottage cafe in Rosses point (beautiful pancakes bacon and syrup) Tempo cafe in Ballisodare, Nook in collooney, and also Osta in Sligo Town. The Venue in Strandhill do lovely food as do Langs in Grange.

How can people find you online? and if you would like to make a special offer to our listeners that would be great - just an idea. Thank you :) : 
A Dip A Day In December on Instagram and Facebook. Also Mark Elliott on Facebook too.