Big Paul lends a helping hand to ABI

ONE of Ireland’s finest sporting exports continued his great work for an extremely worthy cause recently as he handed over a cheque from his inaugural golf classic that took place earlier this year.

Footballing legend and long time model county resident Paul McGrath was delighted to continue his fundraising and promotional work with Acquired Brain Injury Ireland, an organisation that seeks to empower people to live life to their full potential after sustaining a brain injury.

The former Aston Villa and Manchester United man was delighted to attend the ABI clubhouse in Drinagh where he handed over a cheque for €12,175.

The money was raised at a special golf classic that took place back in August and saw golfers take to the fairways at

Rathaspeck before enjoying a barbecue and prize giving ceremony with the man himself.

As well as presenting the cheque, Paul was also delighted to check out a new book of short stories created by service users and friends called ‘Brain Matters’.

The project was funded by Wexford County Council’s Creative Community Grant and saw service users undertake a 12 week creative writing course with the help of renowned local author Cat Hogan.

To finish, they penned their own short stories which are compiled in the book which everyone associated with the organisation is incredibly proud of.

Everyone at ABI, as always, wished to thank Paul McGrath for his help and support, while they also thanked Wexford County Council and Cat Hogan for providing her expertise.

The presentation of the €12,175 proceeds from the Paul McGrath golf classic in the Acquired Brain Injury Ireland clubhouse in Drinagh. Paul McGrath and Dermot Firman. Tommy and Theresa Ellis at the event.

Contributors to the book with Paul McGrath and author Cat Hogan who helped with the production (from left): Tara Culleton, Robyn Cousins, Irene Delaney, Cat Hogan, Paul McGrath, Colm White, Anne Cribben and Tim O’Donnell.