'Barmaid's death can raise awareness'

Killed: Emma O'Kane died after a glass bottle pierced her throat at a Heywood bar where she worked

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The tragic death of Emma O’Kane will raise awareness about the dangers of pub violence, say her relatives.

The 27-year-old mother-of-three died on Boxing Day 2008, after being struck with a glass bottle at the Queen Anne Hotel in Heywood.

The barmaid, who worked in the Queen  Anne, was out with friends when the bottle, thrown into the crowd by 19-year-old Neil McNulty, pierced her throat, causing her death.

McNulty pleaded guilty to manslaughter when he appeared at Manchester Crown Court on Tuesday (17 March 2009).

Now Emma’s uncle, John O’Kane, has organised a special fundraising night in her honour, and hopes the shock of her death will encourage more sensible behaviour in the borough’s pubs and clubs.

A race night has been planned at the Midland Beer Company, Castleton, on Saturday April 4.

John O’Kane said: “The response from people has been really good. I’d like to say a special thanks to businesses in Castleton who have donated items for the raffle and shown their sincere support”.

Raffle tickets are available from the Midland.

Rochdale Online has agreed to take donations at the office, 847-849, Manchester Road, Castleton, OL11 2UY.

For more details, contact John O’Kane on 01706 352242.