Tributes paid to Larne FC player on anniversary

Larne FC officials and supporters pictured at Frank Gardiner's grave.

Mr Gardiner (20) died 98 years ago after a clash of heads with a Comrades player while playing at Ballyclare’s first ground, Messines Park on the town’s Hillhead Road.

He passed away in his sleep in the early hours of September 24 1922.

The supporters set their rivalry aside to lay wreaths and remember the player who perished after a derby tie.

Fans of Ballyclare Comrades and club officials at Frank Gardiner's grave.

Commenting on social media following the event, a member of Larne’s Inver Red and Whites Supporters’ Club said: “Special thanks to Justyn Wallace who proposed the idea and Paul Duffin who did the historical work that led to this.

“Also thanks to Gareth Clements, Lyn Kernohan, Don Horner and Jackie Murdock for representing the two club boards and former Comrades player and Manager Denis McKenzie.”

A message from the Editor:

The delegation pictured in Larne New Cemetery on September 24.

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