A very successful weekend was had in Newry last weekend. It was one that was eagerly awaited in Newry, Co. Down as Willie Maley’s memorial statue was unveiled. We were proudly represented by Kevin, Neil and Drew as they made the long journey to Ulster for the event. The reports we got back were fantastic.
They came across familiar faces aswell as new ones. It appeared that Celtic fans had travelled from all over Ireland and Scotland to witness the occasion. Videos emerging of the corteo and the fabulous Eire Nua Band were a sight to behold. It made for a carnival atmosphere in the town of Newry as this led to the main event, the Statue Unveiling – which was a stunning sight. A beautiful piece of memorbilia that will forever be standing in the birthplace of Celtic’s first ever Manager.
As dusk fell on proceedings, the Canal Court Hotel was the venue for the remainder of the day, to commemorate and to celebrate. Music was played by the brilliant Parcel Of Rogues and Shay Doolin. Fans caught photographs with a few high profile names such as Jackie McNamara, Tommy Johnson and Joe Miller who were kind enough to make the trip across the Irish Sea. Our own lads caught up with some old mates, members of Port Lairge Emerald CSC, Lurgan No. 1 CSC, Tain Bhoys CSC, Wicklow Emerald CSC to name a few. The Willie Maley song was belted out in the Canal Court Hotel as the party continued long into the early hours.
A massive thank you must go to Mark McEvoy and the Newry Willie Maley Committee who put unbelievable time and effort into organising this event. It couldn’t of went any better for them, all well worth it.
On the way back, the lads were able to stop off in Maynooth, and catch the Killie v Celtic game in the company of the North Kildare CSC at their fantastic venue, the Newtown Inn. We thank the hosts for their warm welcome and generous hospitality. It was a great way to break up the journey and for our Chairman to get his bearings as he got Neil and Drew back to Cork in 1 piece. We apprieciate the effort our 3 bhoys made to represent us at what was a very significant event in Newry, great ambassadors of the Cork No 1 CSC. Thanks again the Newry Willie Maley Memorial Group, we hope to see you again soon. Until next time HH.
