'What a great character' - Offaly soccer club in tribute after sudden death of former player

The town of Edenderry is in mourning this week after the sudden death of former Edenderry Town FC player Martin Fennessy. 

Known affectionately as 'Bagger,' Martin has been remembered this week as "a great character" and a "pure gentleman" after his sad passing. 

Edenderry Town FC, where Bagger played for many years and sold lotto tickets up until his death, led the tributes locally. 

In a statement, they said: "As a mark of respect for our former player and current lotto ticket seller, our lotto on Monday is postponed due to the death of the great Martin Bagger Fennessy. Another great character gone. RIP Bagger."

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Other locals paid tribute with one saying: "What a great character and a pure gentleman, condolences to all the Fennessy family at this very sad time. May baggers gentle soul rest in peace."

School friend Peter O'Neill wrote: "One of the best Edenderry characters and a terrific sportsman. I started school with Bagger and Fido in 64 and remained lifetime friends. Bagger played snooker for Ireland, soccer for the Town, volleyball and partnered myself to win a Leinster in table tennis.

The late Martin 'Bagger' Fennessy

"One great feat he had was a standing jump over 5-5 in a competition but was found to be against the rules. From the days of swimming in the quarry and the canal to playing football in O'Brien's field, now The Derry Rovers field of dreams, to going to the Copper every weekend, you could always count on him. To all his family, sincere condolences.

Local singer and friend Sandra Hynes added: "An absolute gentleman and such a wonderful character. I will miss you and will always remember you when I sing Tennessee Whiskey...or as you preferred to say “Fennessy Whiskey”…Rest easy my friend."

Martin was laid to rest at St. Mary's Cemetery, Edenderry, after funeral mass on Wednesday, June 12.