TICKETS GOING FAST FOR NORTH ANTRIM SPORTS AWARDS

O'Neill, who enjoyed a career with Leicester City, Queen's Park Rangers and a brief spell at Norwich, will be reflecting on his playing days at club level and especially on the International stage during which he gained 39 caps for Ireland and played in two World Cups - 1982 and 1986.

Now working as a television and radio presenter, O'Neill is one of the most respected figures in football circles and he told the Times he was looking forward to attending the Awards.

"It will be good to meet local sportsmen and women who have earned their place at the Awards ceremony," O'Neill said.

Ever mindful of education first, O'Neill went straight from school to University and signed as a non-contract player with Leicester City until he finished his degree in 1979.

He then signed as a professional with Leicester until 1987.

Following a short spell at QPR, he moved on to Norwich where he was injured on his

debut and never played again.

O'Neill was given an U21 cap by the then Northern Ireland manager, Danny Blanchflower, in 1979 and made his International debut in Israel in 1980 under Billy Bingham.

He went on to play 39 time for N.Ireland and was fortunate enough to have played in both the 1982 and 1986 World Cups.

As a summariser for both BBC radio and television O'Neill's contribution has earned him the respect of fans as well as those in the soccer fraternity.

The awards ceremony will be hosted by another BBC employee, Joel Taggart.

This will be Joel's third time behind the microphone as compere and his wit and one-liners have made him a popular figure with audiences.

Of the special guest, Joel said: "John O'Neill is a great speaker and the audience will enjoy some of the funnier moments from his footballing career."

It is expected that former QPR manager, Jim Magilton, 'Winkie' Murphy from Linfield and a host of other stars including former World strongest man, Dave Warner, and Glenn Ross will be present for a night of celebration.

Times Editor, Lyle McMullan, said the awards were shaping up to be the best yet and that he was greatly encouraged by the support received from nominees.

"These awards cover the whole of Ballymoney and Moyle and winning is therefore all the more rewarding.

"The people nominated realise that and that's why we are getting so much support," Mr. McMullan added.

Iris's Kitchen whose food has been praised so much in the past, is again doing the catering.

The public are welcome to attend with tickets costing 25 each. Ticket sales close this Friday and anyone wanting to book their place should contact Claire Cartmill on 028 276 66216.