Northern Ireland

Tributes paid to former Dunloy Cuchullains GAA chairman James McLean

Dunloy Cuchullains GAA chairman James McLean was 'committed Gael'
Dunloy Cuchullains GAA chairman James McLean was 'committed Gael' Dunloy Cuchullains GAA chairman James McLean was 'committed Gael'

THE chairman of a Co Antrim GAA club who died yesterday has been described as a "committed Gael".

James McLean of Dunloy Cuchullains, who was in his 60s, was well known in GAA circles across Ulster.

A former footballer and hurler with Dunloy, he had served in several roles with his club including as a referee.

Tributes poured in on social media last night as news of his death spread.

Mr McLean also served the Antrim county board and was a former north Antrim divisional chairman.

County chairman Ciarán McCavana said: "He will be a big loss to his family, club and Antrim GAA."

The Dunloy club said it was devastated.

"Chairman was one of many roles James had at the club over the years and he will be sorely missed by everyone around Pearse Park."

Friend and neighbour Philip McGuigan said Mr McLean was committed to improving his community.

"His death is obviously a devastating blow to James' family and friends and I pass on my sincerest condolences to them but his passing will also be deeply felt within Dunloy and wider north Antrim community," he said.

"James was a committed Gael who invested much time and energy into all that is positive about the GAA throughout Dunloy, Antrim, Ulster and Ireland.

"He was also committed to the betterment of his community and worked hard to promote his village of which he was rightfully proud.

"He will be sorely missed."