Taken from Down Recorder

PORTAFERRY Camogie Club had cause to celebrate recently.

The club is 60 years in existence and this landmark coincided with the centenary of the association itself.

A total of 120 members, past and present, enjoyed a most memorable evening in the local GAC clubhouse.

Guests of honour were Fr. Martin Kelly P.P Portaferry, county chairperson, Mr. Ben Fox and his wife, and Portaferry Hurling Club chairperson, Mr. Brian McNally.

A special presentation of crystal clocks was made by Fr. Kelly to the surviving members of the first team of the 1940s.

Kirsty Mageean, chairperson of the club, gave a brief history of the club since it began in the early 1940s, thanking many people who have helped the club over the years.

Brian McNally presented a shield containing the names of all those who had won All-Ireland Championships at Feile, minor and junior levels. This was presented to Mary Sweeney, being the first All-Ireland winner.

Kirsty presented Marian Toner with a camogie statuette in recognition of her selection of a National Colleges’ Camogie All Star.

Ben Fox made a presentation to Una Duff, captain of the Portaferry team which won this year’s Down Junior League.

The final presentation was made by club vice-chairperson Mary Jo Mallon to Margaret Lennon, Kathleen Mason and Catherine Mageean in recognition of their outstanding contribution to club and county over many years.

An extensive array of memorabilia, photographs, sticks, uniforms (former and present) and a special display of All-Ireland medals were evidence around the hall.

All who attended had an enjoyable evening, which undoubtedly will provide much reminiscing in times to come.