Major GAA figure in Kilkenny celebrates milestone birthday

Members of the Men’s Shed in Bennettsbridge deviated from their usual activities last Wednesday when they organised a surprise celebration for Liam Cleere, who celebrated his 90th birthday.

Some members of Liam’s family were present, including his wife Iris, son Gerry, daughter Fiona, daughter-in-law Karen and granddaughter Róisin. A very enjoyable afternoon was had with birthday cake and other goodies.

A family get together is planned for November when other family members from overseas are looking forward to celebrating this special occasion.

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Liam has a unique collection of hurling medals having played with the Kilkenny senior hurlers and Bennettsbridge seniors.

He played in a dual capacity for Kilkenny and Bennettsbridge in goal and out the field.

He has an All-Ireland senior medal with Kilkenny (1957) and three Leinster championships (1957 to ’59, outfield in ’58 and ’59).

He also played outfield in the 1960 Leinster final which Wexford won. He also won two Oireachtas titles in 1957 and 1959 (’57 in goal, ’59 outfield), five Walsh Cups, 10 senior hurling championships with Bennettsbridge and one minor championship medal with Dicksboro in 1952.

In latter years he acted as steward for Kilkenny County Board. At local level he holds the title of President of Bennettsbridge GAA club, a position held jointly for many years with the late Johnny McGovern.

Liam is wished many more happy years with his family and friends.

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