Tributes have poured in following the passing of Newry legend Martin Lynch.
The legends 4 Lyncho page took to social media:
“It is with great sadness that we learn of the passing of club legend Marty Lynch.
Marty was a true inspiration, leader, competitor and an incredibly talented sportsman. He was also a key member of our 1996 Intermediate Championship Winning Team. He will be sorely missed.”
“We extend our sincere condolences to the entire family circle at this difficult time. St. John Bosco pray for him.
Further updates will be provided when funeral arrangements are known.”
Sinn Fein Newry and Armagh MLA Liz Kimmins added:
“Very sad news today as we learned of the passing of our dear friend Marty Lynch.
A sporting legend, Marty was well known and well respected across Newry.
He fought a courageous battle with Motor Neurone Disease, and the people of Newry and further afield were behind him at every turn.”
“Our deepest condolences to Marty’s wife, Rosaleen, sons Kenneth and Ryan, brothers Kevin and Padraig, and grandchildren Lorcan, Niall, and Ellie.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”
Down GAA also added:
“All associated with Down GAA are saddened to learn of the death of our former county footballer Marty Lynch.
Marty fought a courageous fight against motor neurone disease, and we had been delighted when he joined us a few short weeks ago at Páirc Esler when Down defeated Donegal in the Ulster Senior Championship.”
“Marty grew up as one of the outstanding players on a golden generation of Mitchels underage teams, ironically defeated for the first and only occasion by Newry Shamrocks in the County Minor Final of 1981.
Marty would go on to captain Down to win the Ulster Under 21 title in Centenary Year. Indeed when the game was going against Down ‘it was their inspirational captain Martin Lynch at centre half back who drove his team forward’. Cork would win in the All-Ireland semi-final, but Marty Lynch would also make his senior debut in the Ulster championship of 1984 and play Senior Championship again in 1985.”
“Marty gave his heart and soul to every game that he played, for Newry Mitchels or in later time for St John Bosco. For Marty, every game had to be played with intensity, passion and a desire to win.
A man taken to soon from us, he wore his heart on his sleeve as a proud Down man.
We extend our deepest and heartfelt sympathies to his wife Rosaleen, sons Kenneth and Ryan, his grandchildren and wider family. We think too of the Gaels of Newry Mitchels and St. John Bosco GAC Newry at this sad time.”
ENDS
CLANRYE NEWS 