Offaly golfer forced to leave trophy behind as Ryanair refuse to bend luggage rules

An Offaly native was forced to leave his trophy behind due to Ryanair rules after winning a major amateur title in Spain at the weekend. 

Banagher native Joe Lyons picked up the Spanish Senior Men's Amateur title in Seville and after being pictured with the trophy and beginning celebrations, he hit the rough at the airport.

Joe got to the Ryanair desk but was told his trophy would only be permitted on board if it fit in his or his wife's hand luggage.

His wife tried but the bag wouldn't zip all the way and staff told him the zip had to be closed before it would be allowed.

In frustration, Joe left the trophy behind and told staff to keep it. They informed him they would be throwing it in the bin.

Posting on X, Joe sarcastically said: "Thank you, Ryanair for refusing to allow me bring the Spanish Open Trophy home with me after a great week in Seville."

"I just think Ryanair should be called out for it," Joe is quoted as saying in the Irish Independent. He said he was so frustrated he ended up just walking away from staff at the desk and boarding the flight.

Joe, who lives in Galway, said nothing will take the shine off his win in Spain and that it's a replica trophy and not one he has to give back next year.

Ryanair has been contacted for comment but has not yet replied.