A memorial day for Luke Byrne

A memorial day for the late Luke Byrne will take place this Saturday at Corlough GAA grounds.

Luke died tragically in a car accident on the N3 near Kilnaleck on June 9, 2022.

The 17-year-old was a member of Corlough GAA since underage level and the club wanted to hold a family fun day event in his memory.

With Luke’s birthday nearing, his family also wanted to host something in his memory.

“Luke was a member of our football club,” said Corlough GAA chairperson Gerry Prior.

“A very good prominent young player, a player that would go places,” he described Luke, adding that he was “dedicated and there for the training and everything”.

The Leitrim man said Luke’s death was “hard to recover from” for his team mates and the entire club.

“We opened up the community centre at the time for a book of condolence and members of the county board came down and spoke and advised us how to do things, which was very helpful.

“We really thank them for that, there were great points and great guidelines that they gave us.

“It takes time to get back on your feet after that,” he said, adding that there was “plenty of help there”.

Luke was also a member of the local scouts organisation, Abbey Rovers Football Club in Ballinamore, and also played for Dernacrieve Gaels football team.

The sports day will comprise different races for children and a tug of war competition for adults. Weather permitting, the club has also planned a barbecue for the day.

“Everyone is encouraged to go along,” said Gerry.

The event will start at 2pm with no set finishing time.

“Just come out and support Luke’s day,” Gerry encouraged, inviting local clubs to come along also.