COUNTRY music singer Nathan Carter is among a host of Irish stars making phone calls to fans who are missing live performances during the coronavirus lockdown.
The 30-year-old singer, who lives in Co Fermanagh, told of how he phoned one woman in Cork who had not received a phone call in weeks.
"This was her first phone call," he told RTÉ.
"She was delighted. It was really nice."
The initiative was launched by singer Trudi Lalor and her songwriter husband Billy Morrissey, who wanted to connect fans via a phone call during lockdown.
"We came up with the idea when we were out walking and talking about the fans and how they are missing the live performances," she said.
"So, I went on my radio show on Tipp FM and asked fans would they like to be connected with their favourite artist. In two minutes, I had 600 messages," she said.
Around 70 Irish country music artists are involved in the campaign, including Daniel O'Donnell, Mike Denver, Cliona Hagan and Robert Mizzell.
Carter, who is originally from Liverpool, said he was delighted to be taking part, adding: "we don't realise the joy you can bring just by making a call".
"Everybody at the minute is going through tough times and a little phone call, if it picks someone up and makes them happy for a day or a week or a month, it's great thing to do," he said.
Fans can nominate someone to get a phone call from their favourite Irish country artist by contacting the Reach Out Facebook page.
Ms Lalor said they "could not believe the response".
"It's a wonderful, feel-good project and we're thrilled to be a part of it," she said.
