Goodbye to two immense local figures

It has been a tough week for our community made even harder with the sad passing of two local legends this week

On Thursday we were met with the news that one of the ‘Men of 58’ the hugely popular George Conway had left one. Universally acclaimed a ‘one of nature’s gentlemen’ George was a hugely popular figure and fondly recalled in Laytown history. A gentleman he most defintely was and this scribe remembers with fondness our chats at the 50th and 60th anniversary celebrations of that famous 1958 Intermediate championship win. How appropriate that the 60th anniversary was held in the Village Inn where this great team actually received their medals in the autumn of 52 years ago.

To George’s family, his sisters Teresa and Pauline all his nephews, nieces, grandnephews and grandniece, to his neighbours, to all the laytown community and to his team mates we express our deepest condolences and prayers. There no doubt were some great stories and games played above in heaven over the last few days as George met up with his old friends

A dheis go raibh a ainim dilis a chara

As if the area had not enough sorrow over the last week the news then broke late Friday night of the passing of one of the Community’s most generous and loving men, the great Jack Doran. A supporter of all local groups, Jack always backed and sponsored the Cilles. It was our pleasure to have Jack as our jersey sponsor in the mid nougties but he was never found wanting and also was sponsors of our first ‘strictly Cilles’ in 2015 and our very successful Car Draw in 2019

Jacks sons Rob and Mark are former players with Rob playing in the 1994 minor final and his grandchildren are the latest generation to pull on the blue jersey.

To all Jack’s family and friends we extend our greatest sympathy and prayers at this very difficult time

Ar dheis go raibh a ainim dilis Jack

As a club we are aware that we have been unable to support so many bereaved since government restrictions have been imposed and that the supports that would normally be there cannot be there now. You are all in our thoughts at this time. When this is all over we will hold a mass and celebration in Piltown to honour everyone who has left us, all our volunteers on the frontline and look forward to the future

Stay safe and stay in touch everyone