A poignant final farewell

Thousands attend funeral of teacher

ROUSING football chants sung by students of St Jarlath’s College in Tuam broke the somber silence as staff and students bid a poignant final farewell to their much-loved teacher Andrew Carney this afternoon.

Students of all ages lined the route towards the school’s football pitch in a guard of honour as staff carried the remains of their colleague across the field where he spent so much time during his career there.

Footballs spelling out ‘Carney’ were laid out on the pitch and a single blue flare rose into the sky.

The tribute followed Mr Carney’s funeral Mass where thousands of mourners turned out to share their grief, support and solidarity to a man who was a hugely positive influence for so many.

There has been widespread shock and sadness following the death of the 49-year- in the early hours of Sunday morning.