Golf star Padraig Harrington helps Kildare girl Charley-Ann light up Carton House

Golfer Padraig Harrington took time out after his successful 2016 season to join Charley-Ann Whelehan (9) from the Make-A-Wish Foundation to switch on the Christmas tree lights and light up Carton House for Christmas.

Carton House are once again hosting their Christmas tree lighting event in aid of Make-A-Wish Ireland, to help raise funds for the Foundation.

Charley-Ann from Kildare, who suffers from RETT Syndrome, was joined by her family, Padraig and his wife Caroline and their family, Santa Claus, local and hotel guests, residents and friends for a night of festive fun with mulled wine, warming mince pies and joyful carols.

Padraig, who recently won the Portuguese Masters, said: “I am proud to be an ambassador for the Make-A-Wish Foundation and I am honoured to be here to help Charley-Ann switch on the lights for this year’s Christmas Make-A-Wish Tree.

"Christmas is such a special time with family and friends and the annual turning on of the lights at Carton House is the perfect opportunity to increase awareness for this great organisation and to raise money to help make wishes come true for many children and their families.”