Seamus Hearne was one of Wexford's most versatile players during the county's golden era of hurling, winning two All-Ireland titles in the process. When news of his death in London on November 7 last week broke in his native county, it immediately brought back memories of the All-Ireland successes of the 1950's and the fact that Wexford has lost another of his famous sons. Formerly of Ballina, Curracloe, Seamus lived at the time of his death at 82 Rawling's Crescent, Wembley, London. During his five years service with the couinty Senior side, Seamus featured in various positions, both in defence and attack, but then settled down as partner to Jim Morrissey at midfield. It was in this role that his remarkable speed, dash and enthusiasm proved invaluable assets in his county's march to All-Ireland honours in 1955 and 1956, while he was also a member of the side who lost to Cork in the 1954 All-Ireland final. Seamus had the distinction of being the only man from the Over the Water district on that remarkable Wexford side. A carpenter by trade, his work took him to Cork where he first played with Midleton, and he was also found in the colours of the famed Blackrock, helping them to county Senior title. Prior to achieving inter county fame, he also played for one year with the New Ross Insurgents while employed in a housing scheme in the town. Always looked upon as a wonderful hurling talent from his early days, Seamus started his hurling career on the county Minor side, and worked his way through the Juniors to Senior ranks. He went on to win three Leinster Senior hurling championship medals in addition to his two All-Ireland medals, while he also won Oireachtas and National League honours with his beloved model county. One of the smaller men of that famous Wexford hurling side, Seamus made up for his lack of physique with a shrewd hurling brain, speed about the pitch, and wonderful skills which was a joy to watch on those wonderful days in Croke Park. Seamus played at midfield in the 1954 final which Wexford lost to Cork by 1-9 to 1-6. In 1955 Wexford won the title at the expense of Galway by 3-13 to 2-8, adding a successive title the following year with a 2-14 to 2-8 victory over Cork. His display in that 1956 final earned him the 'Irish Independant' sportstar of the week award. The fair-haired wonder was fondly remembered at his funeral Mass in Screen, which was attended by Gaels from throughout the country and beyond. Seamus is deeply regretted by his loving sister, Maeve, brothers Jack and Michael, nephews, relatives and friends. Go ndeana Dia trocaire ar a anam. Wexford People 26/11/08 Tweet

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