A 90th birthday to remember for Paddy as neighbours celebrate

Marking life’s special occasions while in social isolation

PADDY Carroll celebrated his 90th birthday recently, with neighbours gathering outside his Bray home at a safe distance from him and each other.

His wife Kathleen and daughter Deirdre, who lives with them, were able to be with him on the day, but otherwise his children and grandchildren couldn’t join Paddy other than via Zoom.

It was a surprise for Paddy, who was lured outside by his daughter claiming to have a problem with her car.

He hails from Dundrum originally and was a very famous goalkeeper in his day, when he won an FÁI cup medal for Transport in 1950. The CIE-sponsored team played out of Carlisle Grounds in Bray and was managed by Matt Giles, uncle of Johnny Giles.

A plumber by trade, Paddy’s clubs included Home Farm, Shamrock Rovers and Glenmore Celtic, until a knee injury put paid to his football career and he retired in his early 20s.

Paddy’s late brother Tommy Carroll used to be a manager at Glenmore Celtic, and the two shared a great passion for football. Tommy’s daughter Helen also surprised her uncle on the day with a visit to the front door and the delivery of a gift.

Paddy’s brother Francis also popped by with his wife Margaret to wish him a very happy birthday, as did Paddy’s son Ciaran.

It was a lovely day, and came with loads of boxes of chocolates, and some wine and champagne.

There was a Zoom call in the evening, including Paddy’s daughters Oonagh, Eimear and their kids.

Paddy’s neighbours arranged to come out of their houses in his cul de sac at 3 p.m. to mark the special occasion.

Everyone sang happy birthday and cheered for him.

They had put up decorations and there was cake and a drink to mark the special day.

Paddy’s family want to thank all the neighbours for making such a special effort.

Calling on our neighbours through these challenging times is very important. Little Miss Hennessy Murphy has assured the community that she is doing great. Enjoying looking after her little garden and enjoying the weather. Invites everyone for tea really soon’.

RIGHT: Desmond Brehoney will celebrate his 50th birthday on May 7. Desmond lives in Arklow in Abbey Manor which is part of Sunbeam House Services.

Laura Rose Earls Kelly pictured here with her sister Margaret Anne turned three last week. Her man, dad, brother Jack and sister Margaret wish her a very happy birthday.

Paddy Carroll and his wife Kathleen.