Chris O’Dowd fronts Tourism Ireland campaign

The comedian and actor Chris O'Dowd, who starred in the hit comedy blockbuster Bridesmaids, is fronting the ‘Escape the Madness’ campaign by Tourism Ireland to encourage Brits to visit Ireland during or after the Olympic Games.

O'Dowd stars in the short film, which takes a very tongue-in-cheek look at the upcoming Olympic Games.

Entitled 'Escape the madness', the film follows a competition between two friends in London to see whether it’s quicker for one friend to fly to Ireland for a pint or for the other to get from home to his office in central London and enjoy the first sip of his morning latte.

The promotion plays up the familiar stereotyping of London's transport being difficult to navigate and slow, whilst pointing out that you only need your drivers' license to get to Ireland.

Niall Gibbons, chief executive of Tourism Ireland, commented: “While the Games will be an exciting time for many Londoners, the increased demand on public transport with the mass influx of sports fans, athletes and media will not be for everyone.

"It presents a unique opportunity to showcase the island of Ireland as a top destination which is on Great Britain’s doorstep. Tourism Ireland’s ‘Escape the Madness’ campaign is targeting Londoners by presenting the island of Ireland as the ideal ‘escape’ destination during this busy time.”

To watch the viedo, click here.

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