In June Barney McAleenan retired as a Head of PE from St. Mark’s High School, Warrenpoint after a period of 35 years. He was a dedicated teacher and an inspirational Gaelic Football Coach and will be sorely missed.

As a teacher he enthused, encouraged and motivated children to believe in themselves and their ability. As a Gaelic Coach his passion, high standards and energy were both challenging and inspirational. His record speaks for itself; 5 All Ireland Championships and 14 Down Championships.

The respect and high esteem that this man generated has led to a Tribute Night being organised by the Friends of St Mark’s in his honour in the Canal Court Hotel on Friday 2nd November. Tickets are £35.00 each; a table of 10 can be booked at a cost of £350.00 and are available from Micéal Magill of Michael Magill Entertainments, St. Patrick’s Park, Warrenpoint, BT34 3SA (07740704762). The guest speaker on the evening will be the brilliant RTE Commentator Mr Micheal Ó’Muircheartaigh. The tickets will be allocated on a first come first served basis. Tickets are also available from Gervase O’Hare in Warrenpoint (02841774145): Brian McGreevy in Hilltown: Micky Linden in Mayobridge and Seamus White in Rostrevor.

A donation from the proceeds of the night will be made to Multiple Sclerosis.