The late Paddy Dunne The news of the death of Paddy Dunne of Belgrove, Ballybrittas in April 2004 at a relatively young age, was received with great sadness in the locality of Ballybrittas and also throughout many parts of Laois. The huge turnouts at both the removal to Rath Church and funeral in Moyanna Cemetery were a testament to the popularity of one of life's gentlemen. Paddy, a member of the Dunne family of Coolroe, was a popular figure within his home area and also around the county he so proudly represented at all levels on the football field. In 1966, he was a member of the Laois minor team, which won the Leinster title (Sadly, within a month of Paddy's death, Sean Delaney, another member of this team had also died). Paddy followed this by winning a Leinster Junior medal with Laois in 1968 and a Leinster Under 21 medal with Laois in 1969. In 1973, Paddy, along with his Courtwood club mates, Dan Luttrell and Ned Flynn, was part of the historic Laois junior football team which brought the county it's first ever All-Ireland title. Paddy played at left half back and was one of the most steady, consistent members of the team. Paddy also played many times for the Laois senior football team, which were unfortunately going through a lean spell at the time. At club level, Paddy accompanied by his brothers, Tommy and Martin, was an inspiration behind the Courtwood club's first-ever county title in 1970. This junior title success was quickly followed by the 1971 IFC Laois title. And in 1986, Paddy's great football career ended on a high when, from centre half back, he guided his club to their second Laois JFC title. Tweet

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