Plaque of former Celtic player Hugh 'Dick' Doherty unveiled in Buncrana
'Today was a very special day,' Buncrana-based Cllr Jack Murray posted. 'The sun was shining and everything went well -thanks to the huge crowd, representing so many sporting organisations, and community groups, who joined us in unveiling a lasting tribute to a local sporting legend today
The unveiling of a plaque outside the former home of Hugh 'Dick' Doherty on St Oran's Road, Buncrana, has been described as "a special day."
An 18-year-old Doherty was spotted by Celtic while playing in a pre-season match in Coleraine, in August 1939 and immediately the teenage winger was invited to Celtic Park for a trial. However, having arrived in Glasgow with his father on September 1 of that year, only for Great Britain to declare war on Germany, following its invasion of Poland.
Doherty went home and played for Derry City and Dundalk, whilst working in the family business - a farm and a butcher's shop - as well as in his uncle's pub in Derry. He would eventually make his Celtic debut aged 25, in 1947. At the age of 93, Doherty was still active as assistant treasurer of the Inishowen Football League, before passing away in September 2014.
"Today was a very special day," Buncrana-based Cllr Jack Murray posted. "The sun was shining and everything went well.
Thanks to the huge crowd, representing so many sporting organisations, and community groups, who joined us in unveiling a lasting tribute to a local sporting legend today.
"Particular thanks to Buncrana Hearts FC for working so closely with the council in making it happen. And to the new homeowners, Jennifer and Eamonn, who allowed us to erect the plaque. Also to Hugh's family who travelled from near and far to join the celebration. Go raibh maith agat also to John McCarron for his work in making the plaque which will now stand in lasting memory of Hughie 'Dick' Doherty - one of the greatest sportspeople Inishowen ever produced."