WHEN HE TRIED – and failed in spectacular fashion it must be said – with an overhead kick in the pre-match warm-up, Finn Harps mascot Harper probably knew it wasn’t going to be his night, writes Alan Foley.

Harper was on the field ahead of Harps’ Premier Division fixture against Sligo Rovers at Finn Park last night and tried to meet a deft cross with an audacious  effort – only to land flat on his face. Laugher rolled in from the terraces as Harper, showing pride over pain, jumped to his feet to give a wave of acknowledgment despite not getting a chance to show his Pedigree, Chum.

Then, 27 minutes into the match with the score still 0-0, match referee Tommy Connolly stopped play and told a steward at the Town End of Finn Park to remove poor Harper, who was motioning to make saves behind the Rovers goal, which was being marshalled by Ed McGinty, a Motherwell native whose family come from Ballyshannon. Ruff justice indeed, although the steward did not lay a paw on him.

After declaring his innocence and shrugging his shoulders a few times, poor Harper was removed from the end-line, much to the disappointment of both sets of supporters, who barked his innocence.

Nathan Boyle, a minute later, scored the first of his two goals in Harps’ 2-0 win, although Twitter did show some sympathy for poor Harper, who may or may not be suspended for Monday’s visit of Cork City.

Who ever said it’s a dog’s life?

@alimason Noticed your comment on a post last night. Here’s the Finn Harps mascot being sent off during the game against Sligo Rovers.
(Photo: Clare McCahill / Extratime) pic.twitter.com/eacN14aO31

— Clare McCahill Photographer (@ClareMcCahill) June 29, 2019

27 min. The Finn Harps mascot has been sent off for pretending to save shots behind our goal (0-0) pic.twitter.com/71DhCTXGrM

— Sligo Rovers (@sligorovers) June 28, 2019

Does the Finn Harps mascot get a suspension?

— Stephen Doyle (@dubsoulrebel) June 28, 2019

my first day at work as the finn harps mascot has gone wonderfully

— Patrick (@PrayForPatrick) June 28, 2019

U.S and Canadian walkers were given a taste of one of Donegal’s best walks during a recent visit to the local section of the International Appalachian Trail.

Twenty walkers from the International Appalachian Trail and Northern Ireland enjoyed a hike at Leghowney (near Donegal Town) earlier this month.

DLDC’s Inga Bock, Rural Recreational Officer and organiser of the International Appalachian Trail was delighted to welcome the delegates. The walk stretched from Kelly’s Bridge, Killeter to Leghowney Hall, with local walkers coming out to welcome the international visitors to the area.

It was the end of a five day visit to Ireland North and South, discussing walking trails in the community and the knock on benefits economically to a region. The 5 day forum included walks along parts of the International Appalachian Trail on the island of Ireland, group discussions, presentations, local food and plenty of laughs.

The International Appalachian Trail is the longest hiking trail in the world today. It is a long-distance walking trail that extends beyond borders to all geographic regions once connected by the Appalachian-Caledonian mountain terrain, formed more than 250 million years ago. Donegal was officially added to Appalachian Trail maps in 2010.

“DLDC would like to thank everyone who took part and give a big Bualadh Bós to everyone including Regional Recreation Officer Inga Bock and James Mc Crudden National Chairman of Country Markets Ltd Association and Leghowney Country Market on organising such a successful international event,” a spokesperson said.

“Thanks to everyone from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, Appalachian Mountain Club, Maine Chapter of the IAT, IATNL, Tourism Ireland, Failte Ireland, Mountaineering Ireland, International Appalachian Trail of Ireland and all of the others who joined the event. Thanks also to Mark Flagler of Flagler Films who gave us permission to use his footage of the event.”

This would not have been possible without the financial support of funders including: DLDC, Derry City & Strabane District Council, Mid & East Antrim Council and The Ulster Federation of Rambling Clubs

The 2018 Dubai Duty-Free Irish Open will live long in the memory of TV viewers all over the world and will be cherished forever by the people of Donegal who delivered a spectacular sporting and cultural showcase that has put the county and region firmly on the world stage.

The stunning aerial images broadcast to a worldwide audience of almost 650 million homes in over 90 countries and witnessed by over 94,000 spectators over five days in Ballyliffin have catapulted Donegal to be one of the most sought after destinations in Ireland – and not before time.

Those who doubted the wisdom of bringing an event of this scale to Ballyliffin had underestimated the spirit of Ballyliffin and were stunned by the overwhelming success of the event and the glowing pride and hospitality of the people of Donegal.

This area was devastated by serious flooding less than a year earlier but through the determination of Donegal County Council and the can-do attitude of the community, Donegal seized its moment in the spotlight and dazzled the world in radiant sunshine.   

The local community got behind the event from the outset and virtually moved mountains to ensure the event was a success.

This was one of the most celebrated Irish Opens ever with huge crowds enjoying a festival atmosphere in glorious weather on The Wild Atlantic Way.

With parking on site for over 10,000 cars and a traffic management plan that seemed effortless, despite the limited road infrastructure in Inishowen, visitors to the area, many in Donegal for the first time ever, were gushing in their praise of this undiscovered paradise.

Sky Sports commentator Ewen Murray raved “If there is a course in heaven then I suspect Ballyliffin’s Glashedy Links is the prototype”.

The Pat Ruddy and Tom Craddock masterpiece was presented in impeccable condition for the event and as Tournament Host, Rory Mc Ilroy departed on Sunday his words echoed the seemingly universal view of everyone who experienced the week.

“It’s been incredible. A lot of people were asking me what Ballyliffin was like and I was telling them that it’s a hidden gem. Ballyliffin has now been showcased in all its glory.”

The economic impact and legacy of the successful delivery of a world-class sporting event must now be seized upon by the people of the region, working together with national and local government and agencies such as Tourism Ireland and Failte Ireland.

It is critical we build on the success of the 2018 Dubai Duty-Free Irish Open and reap the economic benefit which Donegal so richly deserves. We have earned our seat at the table and must now command our fair share of government investment and international visitors through tourism focused capital and marketing projects in the region.

The GAA’s Central Council (Ard Chomhairle) has set out two separate proposals for a Tier 2 All-Ireland senior football championship.

A decision on the proposals will be taken at a Special Congress at Páirc Uí Chaoimh on 19 October, with a view to implementation in time for the 2020 Championship.

In 2020 the senior semi-finals in hurling and football will be played across the weekend of January 4/5th. The AIB All-Ireland club senior finals in hurling and football will now be played on Sunday, January 19th.

Proposal A will feature the provincial Championships as present with the current four rounds of All-Ireland qualifiers reducing to two rounds and open to teams from Allianz Divisions One and Two and any Allianz Division Three and Four teams who qualify for their provincial finals.

The Tier 2 Championship format of Proposal A is a straight knock out competition for 16 teams from across Divisions Three and Four that do not make their provincial finals.

There is the possibility for the competition to be organised on a geographical basis – northern and southern conferences for first round ties, quarter-finals and semi-finals to ensure less travel for teams and supporters, while also retaining local rivalries.

The semi-finals would be the only senior inter-county GAA events on their respective weekend – barring a major replay.

Proposal B which has gone forward for discussion is similar to the above and also features Division 3 and 4 teams that do not reach a Provincial Final entering a new Tier 2 championship.

A key difference is that in the event that a Division 3 or 4 team do reach a Provincial Final, to make up 16 teams in Tier 2 their place in Tier 2 would be taken by the lowest ranked Division 2 team from that year’s Allianz league.

The format for the Tier 2 Championship in Proposal B features an initial round of games which then creates a winners’ group and a losers’ group and so offers beaten counties a way of playing their way back into contention.

Proposal B would be played out on the following lines:

16 Teams involved

Rd 1: 8 Teams v 8 Teams

Rd 2a: 4 Winners Rd 1 v 4 Winners Rd 1

Rd 2b: 4 Losers Rd 1 v 4 Losers Rd 1

Rd 3: 4 Rd 2b Winners v 4 Rd 2a Losers

QF: 4 Rd 2a Winners v 4 Rd 3 Winners

Semi-finals & Final

An additional prize for the winner of the final under both proposals would be a place reserved in the following year’s All-Ireland Sam Maguire Championship, irrespective of their league position.

It is also envisaged that both proposals would have dedicated broadcast coverage and a marketing and promotional campaign with a dedicated All-Star selection and tour.

The finals under both proposals would take place at Croke Park.

The proposals will now be sent to counties for discussion with a final wording on the proposals to be agreed at a meeting of Ard Chomhairle in September.

Gaoth Dobhair is in mourning following the passing of former county councillor and soccer icon Fred Coll.

The late Mr Coll, who passed away this morning, in Aras Ghaoth Dobhair, was a highly influential figure in the area.

A long-time independent Councillor on Donegal County Council, he was one of the leading lights in the foundation of the Donegal Junior League in 1971.

He had been one of the key figures in the re-forming of the Gweedore Celtic club in the 1960s following his return to the area from Scotland in the 1960s.

Fred, from Derrybeg, is predeceased by his wife, Kathleen and is survived by a large family circle.

In a tribute posted on social media, Gweedore Celtic said: “Fred Coll was the driving force behind the renaissance of soccer in Gweedore and as part of the Donegal League when it was established in 1971.

“On his return from Scotland in the 60s he re-established Gweedore Celtic and along with Colm Mc Bride set in in motion a period of domination on the local soccer scene that lasted into the mid 80’s.

“At a time when it was neither popular or profitable, Fred’s determination in establishing a strong soccer club in Gweedore was what drove him and others on to making Gweedore Celtic a force to be reckoned with and a club that made many friends throughout Donegal and further afield.

“Rest in peace Fred. Everyone at the club would like to express our sincere condolences to the Coll Family at this sad time.

“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.”

His remains are reposing at his late residence.

Funeral from there on Monday morning going to St Mary’s Church, Derrybeg for Requiem Mass at 11am with burial afterwards in Magheragallon Cemetery.

Finn Harps 4 v 1 Dundalk. Finn Harps Under 13’s enjoyed a winning start to their League of Ireland Group One Shield campaign with this comfortable victory over Dundalk at Illistrin. Three first-half goals sowed the seeds for this win leaving Harps on top and despite an improved performance by the visitors after the break Kevin McHugh’s young charges always looked in control. The pacing Aaron McLaughlin gave Harps the perfect start , tapping in from close range following excellent work by the lively and impressive Shaun Patton had set him up. With Harps in charge Patton doubled the Harps lead in the 25th minute , Conor Kelly did well before sliding a ball through , Dundalk looked for a offside decision that never came and the striker drilled the ball home. And Patton was involved as Harps went 3-0 ahead in the 32nd minute , he headed Martin Coyle’s cross goalwards , Dundalk defender Padraig Tinnelly made a good effort to clear the ball but it hit his keeper Adam Burke and went backwards into the net. After the break in was end to end stuff as Dundalk improved and they almost pulled one back when Charles Barnabus cross cum shot his the outside of the post in the 57th minute. A minute later Burke made a super block save to deny Patton at the other end. The visitors pulled a goal back in the 68th minute when Conal McGeough did well on the right-side , his cross found Barnabus who helped the ball on for Dino Costin tapped in from close range. That’s how it remains until the final minute of normal time before Harps added a fourth , keeper Burke failed to hold Aaron McLaughlin’s corner and in the scramble that followed Shane Ellison got a shot away which a Dundalk defender tried but failed to clear and Harps led 4-1. That didn’t finish the drama however , as two minutes into injured time Dundalk keeper Burke needlessly kicked out at Harps Seanie Bradley , conceding a penalty and receiving a Red Card. Bradley took it himself but stand-in keeper Hughie Mc Ginley produced an excellent save to deny him. Still , a good start for Harps in the Group , one which also has Sligo Rovers , Longford Town , Drogheda Utd , and Athlone Town in it . Finn Harps Squad ; Cillian Hagan , Shane Adair , Darragh Coyle , Martin Coyle , Shane Ellison , Ciaran O Kane , James McAteer , Aaron McLaughlin , Adam McDaid , Shaun Patton , Conor Kelly , Tiernan McGinty , Seanie Bradley , Ciaran Cassidy , Diesel Long ,Joel Gibson , Mark Doherty , Darragh O Doherty .

“More and more people are seeking out wild and beautiful yet fragile landscapes and the challenge of protecting these landscapes from visitor pressures is global” delegates at the ‘ASCENT to Summit’ European Conference in Dungloe were told on Wednesday.

This conference which was hosted in the Waterfront Hotel in Dungloe marks the end of the ASCENT project which was set up to find ways to allow visitors to enjoy those landscapes, while still protecting them.

Donegal County Council along with a number of regions from across Europe first embarked on this journey back in 2016 to look at sustainable management at seven unique upland sites including Errigal Mountain in Donegal.

The Summit of Errigal Mountain which is one of seven unique upland sites considered as part of the EU ASCENT project looking at new ways to conserve, protect and sustain these natural sites without taking from the experience they offer

Liam Ward, Director of Service Donegal County Council and Chairperson of the ASCENT Steering Committee, explained that the conference was a culmination of research and exchange of international best practice across the Northern Periphery Area of Europe.

He said “Donegal County Council managed the three year project and worked with multi-region European partners whose collective experience created new ways to conserve, protect and sustain these natural sites without taking from the experience they offer”.

He also acknowledged the support of the INTERREG VB Northern Periphery and Arctic Programme (2014 – 2020), which allowed for the implementation of innovative measures to better manage and conserve the seven sites of natural beauty for future generations.

25 delegates from across the Northern Periphery and Arctic Area of Europe travelled to Dungloe to attend the project’s closing conference on Wednesday last (26th June).

European delegates attending the ASCENT to Summit Conference hosted by Donegal County Council in the Waterfront Hotel in Dungloe on Wednesday with Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council Cllr Nicholas Crossan and Donegal County Council Chief Executive Seamus Neely.

Speaking at the conference An Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Cllr Nicholas Crossan explained that “while this marks the end of the ASCENT journey; like all journeys its legacy will continue on the path to sustainable management”.

Speaking about the work in Donegal he added “through the commitment of local, regional and national stakeholders, and the community of Dunlewey, in working with Donegal County Council, only then was it possible to find and formulate a solution for one of Ireland’s most important upland sites.”

Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council Cllr Nicholas Crossan launching the ASCENT Conference Report at the ASCENT to Summit European Conference in the Waterfront Hotel in Dungloe on Wednesday.

Mr Trygve Sunde Kolderup from Norwegian Scenic Hikes speaking at the ASCENT to Summit European Conference in the Waterfront Hotel in Dungloe on Wednesday.

A planning application for Habitat Restoration and Sustainable Access was approved by Donegal County Council on April 24th 2019, which allowed for trialling works to commence across two sites in most need of repair on Donegal’s highest peak.

Seven people from Dunlewey and the Sliabh Liag area took part in an upskilling programme on Errigal last week learning more about the highly skilled hand built techniques required for path work ensuring that the necessary skills for upland path repair and maintenance are retained within the local community.

Rosita Mahony from Donegal County Council explained that “the ASCENT project demonstrated the value of international partnerships in meeting environmental challenges, finding solutions, encouraging responsible recreation and importantly, empowering local communities to respond to future challenges.”

In recognition of its contribution to managing uplands sustainably, the ASCENT project recently received an award for innovation in the Environment sector from the Association of Geographic Information (AGI) in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

The conference concluded with Cathaoirleach Cllr Nicholas Crossan and the Deputy Chair of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, Cllr Terry Andrews officially launching the ASCENT Conference Report, which provides a key resource to better inform the sustainable management in European Uplands and Natural Environments.  The achievements of those who completed the upskilling programme were also formally acknowledged.

Brendan O’Donnell from Dunlewey receiving training certificate from Cathaoirleach Cllr. Nicholas Crossan and Andres Arnalds at the ASCENT to Summit European Conference in the Waterfront Hotel in Dungloe on Wednesday.

Residents in the Ballybofey, Crossroads and Killygordon areas are being advised to expect water outages this Tuesday due to Irish Water works.

Irish Water are carrying out major upgrades to the water network in the region to improve water supply and protect the local environment.

As the work progresses a number of areas may experience interruptions to the water supply between 08:00 – 14:00 on Tuesday 02 July 2019. The following areas may be affected:

Irish Water’s local engineering lead, Kevin Love  stated: “When completed the upgrade will ensure a more reliable supply of water to customers in the area and safeguard the water supply for the future. We understand that this type of work can be inconvenient and works crews will make every effort to minimise any disruption these necessary works cause. We would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused.”

Finn Harps manager Ollie Horgan is expecting his side to face a Cork City team that won’t be settling for anything other than a win tomorrow night in Ballybofey (kick-off 8pm).

Cork shipped a 4-1 defeat at the hands of Derry City on Friday night in Turners Cross while Harps secured a badly needed three points against Sligo Rovers, that moved them of the bottom of the League of Ireland Premier Division table.

Nathan Boyle scored both goals in a 2-0 win for Horgan’s team.

“Cork will be a big test for us,” Horgan said. “That defeat at home against Derry will have  been a big blow to them and they will come to Finn Park determined to get the win. So we have to be ready for that. It was great to get three points against Sligo on Friday but none of us are getting carried away with that result. We’ll need a decent run in the second half of the season to be in with any chance of staying up. The lads put in a huge shift on Friday night. There was plenty of sore bodies on Saturday so we’ll see how the recovery goes for them” Horgan said.

Ciaran Gallagher, John Kavanagh and Michael Gallagher remain on the injured while Niall Logue who was forced to sit out the Sligo game is doubtful for tomorrow night’s game.

Cork City will look to bounce back from Friday’s 4-1 defeat to Derry City, as they travel to Ballbofey to face Finn Harps tomorrow night (8pm).

City’s last away game was a 1-1 draw against Sligo Rovers, while the home side enjoyed a 2-0 home win over Sligo Rovers on Friday night. The sides have met twice this season, with City winning 4-3 thriller at Finn Park in March, before the sides drew 1-1 at Turner’s Cross at the end of April.

Speaking to the media after training at Bishopstown earlier today, first team Head Coach John Cotter said: “We had another chat this morning; they did their recovery yesterday and we trained this morning. These players have been brilliant; most of them have been here for a number of years, and I know their characters and their personalities, and I know they will respond in the right way tomorrow. That is exactly what you would be looking for; in times like these, you need people to respond and show what guts and character we know they have.”

“Finn Park is one of the hardest places you can go to. They are a proper league of Ireland club and Ollie Horgan and Paul Hegarty have done an incredible job with them. We have been up there a number of times over the last few years and we have nearly always come away with one nils. This year was a high scoring affair, but it was a game that was in the balance right to the end. We are under no illusions that it will be a tough game. You have to work and have the right attitude to compete with Harps; I have no doubt we will do that and, hopefully, we will come away with the three points.”

Cian Bargary, Cian Murphy, Shane Griffin and Pierce Phillips all miss out through injury, while Dáire O’Connor misses out through suspension.

Donegal will have a much clearer picture of the lie of the land in the forthcoming Super Eights after tomorrow morning’s draw for Round 4 of the All-Ireland qualifiers.

Following their victory in the Ulster final against Cavan last Sunday, Declan Bonner’s side knew they would be paired with the Munster champions Kerry in Group 1.

The remaining two places in that group will be taken by the losers of the other two provisional finals – Meath in Leinster and Connacht losers Galway – or the team that might beat them in Round 4 of the qualifiers.

So, in yesterday’s Round 3 qualifiers, Mayo pipped Armagh 2-13 to 1-15, Tyrone won well away to Kildare on a 2-22 to 1-15 scoreline, Laois overcame Offaly 0-20 to 0-15 and Clare had too much for edged out Weatmeath 1-13 to 0-15.

Therefore, in tomorrow morning’s draw there are two bowls – the beaten provincial finalists and the qualifiers.

Bowl 1
Galway
Cork
Cavan
Meath

Bowl 2
Tyrone
Clare
Laois
Mayo

The draw seeks to avoid repeat pairings which rules out Meath being pitted against Laois after their meeting in the Leinster semi-final earlier this month.

Donegal know they have a home fixture to open their three fixtures on the weekend of July 13/14, take on Kerry at Croke Park the following weekend and then round off with an away game on the first weekend in August, 3/4.

The winners of Group 1 will play the runners-up of Group 2 in the All-Ireland semi-finals, and vice-versa. Dublin and Roscommon are in Group 2 and will be. joined by two other teams.

The draw will be broadcast live on Morning Ireland on RTÉ Radio 1 as part of the 8.30am sports news and also covered live on the GAA’s website.

Unlike in previous rounds of the qualifiers, these games will not be played on a home and away basis. The neutral venues and the throw-in times will be confirmed by the CCCC on Monday afternoon with the games to take place next weekend 6-7 July and the winners advancing to the Super 8s which commence a week later on 13-14 July.

The sun has finally come out and Donegal charity Animals In Need have offered the following advice to ensure that your pets enjoy the warm weather safely too.

Dogs in cars – Every summer dogs die from heatstroke, most commonly when left inside a parked car. Within minutes the temperature inside a car can rise by up to 20 degrees above that outside, turning the car into an oven that bakes the dog from the inside out.

Ventilation – Dogs can’t cope with the heat by sweating like humans do and can only sweat through their paws or by panting. Leaving a car window open isn’t enough ventilation so if you think you’ll have to leave your dog unattended in a car for any time at all, please just leave them at home instead.

Heatstroke – A dog suffering from heatstroke will need urgent veterinary care, but in the meantime, try to lower the dog’s temperature by moving him to a cooler area, wetting the coat and particularly the paws and face and if possible, immerse the dog fully in cool water.

Burnt Paws – To avoid dogs sustaining burnt paws as asphalt pavements soften and melt or from contact with scorching metal or sand, walk them in the early mornings and evenings when it is cooler. If you couldn’t walk along with bare feet, neither should they.

Shade – If your animal spends a lot of time outside, make sure they always have access to a shaded area and plenty of fresh water to drink.

Sunburn – Dogs and cats can suffer from sunburn, especially if they are light coloured or white, and exposed areas such as their nose and ears are particularly at risk. Either keep them inside during the hottest hours or ask your vet for a recommended safe sunblock/cream to use – baby sun cream used sparingly is often fine as long as it doesn’t carry warnings about ingestion but it’s always best to double check with an expert.

Dehydration – Feral cats can become dehydrated during a heatwave as their normal water source dries up, so please consider leaving out a bowl of water for any stray animals or thirsty wildlife that may be actually dying for want of a drink.

You have to give it to Cian Mackey. In the wake of Cavan’s loss to Donegal in Clones last Sunday he took to Twitter to locate a young Donegal girl whom he accidentally struck with a stray football in the warm-up to the game.

Cavan put up a spirited display in their 1-24 to 2-16 loss against Declan Bonner’s side and will be in the hat for tomorrow morning’s draw for Round 4 of all All-Ireland qualifiers, where they will take on Mayo, Tyrone, Laois or Clare for a place in the Super Eights.

However, Mackey revealed on Twitter again yesterday that he had made touch with the family of you young girl and thanked everyone who helped him in his search.

Sam and Chloe Magee were presented with their bronze medals in the badminton mixed-doubles at the 2019 European Games in Minsk, Belarus.

Gabrielle and Chris Adcock of Great Britain overcame the Magees in straight sets in the semi-finals. However, the brother and sister from Rahpoe were all smiles on the podium. It is the third time the Magees will take away a bronze from a European stage.

They were the bronze medalist at the first edition of the European Games in 2015 and also at the 2017 European Badminton Championships.

I didn’t know Manus Kelly the rally driver.

Unlike so many other people across Donegal, I wasn’t brought up on rallying.

But I did know Manus Kelly the man.

Perhaps not as well as so many others who mourned his utterly tragic loss last week.

But I knew Manus to stop and chat to and have a laugh with. And you always had a laugh with Manus.

The last time I spoke to him was a couple of days before he died doing one of the things in life he loved doing.

I was in Italy on holiday with my family and he was making the final preparations for this year’s rally.

But he wasn’t calling in his own interest but in the interest of others.

He wanted me to put in a press release on Donegal Daily urging people to be safe around rally time and to drive carefully and to think of others.

I told him I was on holiday but I’d get it sorted through the office for him.

He called me a bollox and said something about me being on another holiday and that was the last time we spoke.

On Sunday afternoon last I sat down in a bar on a campsite in Italy surrounded by Cavan fans waiting for the Ulster Final to start.

I check the Donegal Daily site and noticed that three stages of the rally had been cancelled because of an “incident.”

Before I could even check to see what had happened my 15-year-old son showed me a snapchat from one of his friends which simply said ‘RIP Manus.’

I just muttered to him that the fella who posted that should be ashamed of himself as I dismissed it out of hand.

My phone started to vibrate then to Whats App messages and texts and I knew then that something was dreadfully wrong.

I went to my wife who was down beside a lake swimming and getting ready to come up to join us to watch the game.

She turned to me and was on her mobile phone and I knew by the look on her face that it was true.

I watched the game and thought of the likes of Michael Murphy and Aidy Glackin and if they knew about Manus before they took to the pitch.

In truth, I didn’t really watch the game but just thought about Manus and his family, about his wife Bernie and his mother and father Donal and Jackie.

I ultimately thought of his kids. Only last week I sat having a cup of coffee in Tobins in Letterkenny and Manus and Bernie’s two eldest sons Mandy and Charlie were in having a sandwich.

I know them both through our local Glenswilly GAA club. Two mischevious lads who you wouldn’t change for the world.

They laughed at each other and as they ran out the door I had to call out after young Mandy that he had forgotten his coat. He thanked me and away they went.

Manus would have just thrown his eyes up to heaven and laughed at the two lads and muttered something like “they’re some bucks.”

I’m dreading meeting the Kelly family as much as I want to tell them how sorry I am for the loss of Manus and to apologise for not being at Manus’ funeral and wake.

Decent people. No-nonsense people. Community people. People people.

We came back from holiday on Saturday night and we headed down to Manus’ grave to say a prayer and to pay our respects.

Pictures of him on the grave amidst fresh floral tributes with poignant messages from family members.

For some unknown reason which I am ashamed of I became angry with Manus for being behind the steering wheel of that car.

But deep down I know he loved it like all the other things in life he loved including Bernie and the kids, his family, his work and his community.

I turned from his graveside and looked across the skyline above the graves at Conwal towards Bomany which had turned an unforgiving black with rain-swollen clouds.

I have only black thoughts when I think of Manus and how, like so many others, we didn’t get a chance to say goodbye to him.

I’m trying to think of the many, many happier times when he made me laugh be it down in his café, out on the sideline in the park at Glenswilly or just a casual meeting on the street.

It’s difficult but we have to try.

To eventually smile and remember Manus with fondness in the passing of time rather than to think about his sad and sudden passing is what his legacy should be.

Thanks for being you, Manus.

SM.

Donegal flew out of the blocks in the LGFA Ladies Ulster final against Armagh in Clones this afternoon.

Chasing a third provincial title on the bounce and a fourth in five years, Donegal are 3-5 to 0-4 in front after scoring two goals in the first five minutes. Amy Boyle Carr and Niamh McLaughlin hit the Armagh net early and Donegal, who have put in an excellent defensive performance thus far having only conceded one point from play, added a third goal through McLaughlin.

Gardaí have launched an investigation after a woman’s body was found off the coast of Donegal this morning.

The body was found in water off the coastline at Bundoran around 9am by people out walking.

The body was recovered and taken to Sligo University Hospital where a post mortem is due to take place.

The woman’s identity has not been released.

Gardai have said the results of the post mortem on the body will determine which direction their investigation will take.

Gardai have appealed for anybody with any information to come forward.

A very impressive architecturally designed split level detached residence is on the housing market in Donegal for €595,000

Very intelligently designed to reflect the contours of the site with most of the bedroom accommodation at the garden and first-floor level whilst living accommodation is at ground floor level with access from a paved external parking area enjoying commanding views over the Golf Course, River Swilly and countryside in the distance.

Located within 10 minutes walk of Letterkenny s 18 Hole Golf Course with modern clubhouse facilities including Brown s Restaurant offering both informal bar food and formal dining to a very high standard. Alcorn s Garden Centre with Thyme Out Restaurant is within 10/15 minutes walk and for those last-minute forgotten essentials Charlie s Container Shop, with Honesty box, is also situated nearby.

The Silver Tassie Hotel is located within a short drive whilst the extensive shopping and leisure facilities available in Letterkenny including Tesco, Dunnes Stores, Marks and Spencer, Menary s, TK Maxx, Aura Leisure Centre etc. are also located within a short drive.

Woodlands National School, Educate Together and Ballyraine National School are also situated within the immediate surrounding area.

This superior residence is ideally located to enjoy the extensive natural amenities available within easy driving distance including golden sandy beaches at Rathmullan, Ballymastocker / Portsalon in the Fanad Peninsula and Downings / Rosapenna in the Rosguill Peninsula, both peninsulas being located on the renowned Wild Atlantic Way.

Check out the full listing by Sherry Fitzgerald/Rainey and see some photos of the property below.

Four Masters have won the Division 2 title at the Féile in Charlestown, Co Mayo.

The Donegal town side won the U-14 competition thanks to a 1-9 to 0-5 win over Mayo’s Claremorris.

More to follow …

DONEGAL put in a masterful performance to win their third LGFA TG4 Ulster SFC in a row – their fourth in five seasons – at St Tiernach’s Park in Clones this afternoon.

In an excellent all-round showing, Donegal were 5-12 to 1-9 winners over Armagh, with Niamh McLaughlin and Geraldine McLaughlin scoring two goals apiece, with Amy Boyle Carr also a goalscorer.

Photo by NorthWest NewsPix

Full report to follow ….