Northern Ireland

Natalie McNally family thank GAA for 'support and solidarity' since her murder

Jarlath Burns visited the McNally family and presented them with a framed Armagh GAA jersey. Picture from Brendan McNally/Twitter
Jarlath Burns visited the McNally family and presented them with a framed Armagh GAA jersey. Picture from Brendan McNally/Twitter

THE family of Natalie McNally have thanked the GAA for the "support and solidarity" it has shown them since her murder.

It comes after GAA president Jarlath Burns visited the family and presented them with a framed Armagh GAA jersey.

In a message posted on Twitter, Ms McNally's brother Brendan wrote: "Humbled by the support and solidarity we’ve received from the GAA family in this time.

"Thanks to our county captain and Uachtarán Tofa Jarlath Burns for your visit.

"Natalie was such a proud Armagh and GAA person. Incredible how this great organisation looks after its own."

Ms McNally (32) was 15 weeks pregnant when she was murdered at Silverwood Green in Lurgan on December 18.

GAA fans have previously paid tribute to Ms McNally with a round of applause breaking out at the 32nd minute to remember the young woman at the Armagh vs Mayo football clash last month.

The invite to her family during the Allianz League Division One clash was made by the Armagh County Board, in honour of Ms McNally, who along with her loved ones was a staunch Armagh supporter.

An image of Ms McNally was shown on screens at the stadium during the game, along with the number for the Crimestoppers charity.

It comes as it has emerged this week that Everton FC’s new stadium will have a special stone dedicated to Ms McNally, who was a devoted supporter of the club.

Earlier this year also saw the Premier League soccer club pay tribute to the Lurgan woman, who had previously travelled with her father to Goodison Park to watch matches.

An image of Ms McNally and her dad in Everton's traditional blue colours was displayed during the match against Southampton.

A tribute in memory of Natalie McNally is displayed prior to the Premier League match between Everton and Southampton at Goodison Park on January 14
A tribute in memory of Natalie McNally is displayed prior to the Premier League match between Everton and Southampton at Goodison Park on January 14

A 33-year-old man has been charged with murdering Ms McNally.

A court heard earlier this month that the trial of Stephen McCullagh, who is accused of the killing, is not likely to take place for a number of months.

He has denied murdering his then partner and remains in custody.

An image of Natalie McNally previously posted to social media by her brother Niall McNally
An image of Natalie McNally previously posted to social media by her brother Niall McNally