Tributes paid to 'an Erris sporting legend'

THE death has occurred of Anthony Patrick (A.P.) Connell, 24 Fr. Mulhern Cresent, Church Road, Belmullet and formerly of Main Street, Belmullet.

A tribute by Belmullet GAA Club said he was regarded as one of the best footballers ever to don the red and white of the club.

It continued: “A.P. was a gifted player of both hurling and football and an accomplished boxer.

"He won a county hurling championship medal in 1957 and played minor football for Mayo in Croke Park.

“He starred in many a famous Erris League battle and enjoyed the comraderie of fellow players throughout the barony.

“A.P. was steeped in Belmullet GAA as his father Pake, the blacksmith, was a founding member, and a great full back in the 1930s.

“Indeed the Connell house was the club’s HQ for many years. In later years A.P. kept fit by playing racketball and cycling. The club extends our sympathy to his brother Liam, cousins and many friends.

“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”

Local Councilor Gerry Coyle joined in the tributes to the deceased.

“He was held in high esteem in the community at large, an Erris sporting legend,” he added.

Predeceased by his parents Pake and Mary, he will be sadly missed by his family, brother Liam (London), sister-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives neighbours and friends.

A Memorial Mass will be held at a later date for the repose of A.P.’s soul