STORM TRACKER: Follow 'Storm Amy' as it bears down on Ireland amid brutal forecast
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06 Sept 2025
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06 Sept 2025
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Beaming Derek Rutherford, a goalkeeper on the Ireland football team that finished sixth at the first ever Transplant World Cup in Italy, was treated to a hero's homecoming in Ballymahon on Monday.
Hundreds of people greeted the Lanesboro-based father of four who works at St Matthew's National School as a special needs assistant.
Derek said the surprise reception, which included an aerial flyover and a guard of honour, was overwhelming and he was very grateful.
"It was a dream come true, to come back and see what the school and community had put on for me, it was so lovely and an absolute fairytale,” he added.
Also read: Longford deeply saddened by death of 'loyal GAA supporter' and man of 'boundless energy' Donal Brady
Derek, who had a liver transplant in 2022, said he is also delighted that children at the school have been inspired by his achievement.
Also read: Family calls for fresh investigation after open verdict in Liam Farrell inquest
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