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Killarney remembers legendary clubman John Kelly

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The town of Killarney was united in grief this past week following the untimely passing of popular Spa native John Kelly. A devoted family man and a stalwart of numerous associations and clubs, it was John’s incredible dedication and loyalty that set him apart as a truly remarkable man.

In 1966, he was part of the first ever Spa team to win an O’Donoghue Cup and his great love for the GAA never waned over the years. The former club Chairman also served as PRO for over 40 years and gave great service to the East Kerry Board, acting as Chairman, PRO and, most recently, as President.

The Kerry seniors also benefitted from his fierce commitment as he worked as a masseuse for Páidí ó Sé’s team between 1997 and 2004.

John was passionate about rowing and pitch and putt and remained active within the Killarney Regatta, Workmen’s Rowing Club and Deerpark Club throughout his life.

His involvement with so many sporting organisations meant John was a constant contributor to the Killarney Advertiser. He was a tireless worker no matter who he was representing and we had the pleasure of witnessing that on a weekly basis.

Killarney Advertiser Director Cormac Casey said he would be sadly missed. “Johnny was a friend of the Advertiser and of the Casey family for as long as I can remember,” he said.

“He was probably our earliest ever club correspondent for the Killarney Notes. We always enjoyed working with him on various projects over the years. Johnny had very kind words for us on our 30th birthday celebrations when he spoke on Frank Lewis’ radio show, which is something we always appreciated.”

Following his death on Monday, Spa GAA and the East Kerry Board were quick to offer their condolences.

“Heavy heart today,” Spa said in a statement on Twitter. “Sad news that John Kelly, former club Chairman, East Kerry GAA Chairman and Kerry GAA delegate has passed away. RIP.”

In a statement, the East Kerry Board said they were “shocked and saddened” at the news. “We wish to extend our sincere sympathies to his wife Sheila, his family and his many friends at his beloved Spa GAA… John was widely known and highly regarded, and his induction into the East Kerry Hall of Fame was well deserved. May he rest in peace.”

John is survived by his wife Sheila and their five children.

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Kerry coaches firm honoured with All-Ireland title

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Kerry Coaches named All-Ireland All-Star Bus & Coach Company of the Year 2025

Killarney-based Kerry Coaches has been named All-Ireland All-Star Bus & Coach Company of the Year 2025 by the All-Ireland Business Foundation. This recognition also marks Kerry Coaches’ second Business All-Star Accreditation, having received its first accolade in 2024.

Founded in 1957, Kerry Coaches has established itself as a leader in the Irish transport industry, known for its exceptional service and commitment to quality.  With a fleet of over 100 modern chauffeur vehicles, mini-buses and coaches the company provides a wide range of transport services, including corporate travel, executive golf transportation and bespoke tours throughout Ireland and Scotland.

 Speaking on the achievement, Mike Buckley, Director of Kerry Coaches, said:

“We are incredibly proud to receive this national recognition from the All-Ireland Business Foundation. It’s a true reflection of the dedication, professionalism, and passion shown by every member of our team. Our mission has always been to deliver exceptional travel experiences, and this award reaffirms our position as a leader in the industry.”

Announcing the news of Kerry Coaches’ achievement, Deputy Chair of AIBF’s Adjudication Board, Kieran Ring, said: “It is my pleasure to commend Kerry Coaches for its outstanding performance in achieving the Business All-Star accreditation. After a thorough review, the firm has been honoured with All-Ireland All-Star Bus & Coach Company Of The Year 2025. Kerry Coaches is distinguished not only for its superior fleet but also for its exceptional team, some of whom have been with the company for over 25 years. This seasoned team brings an extraordinary level of knowledge and expertise, ensuring that every client experience is exceptional.”         

Managing   Director   of   the   All-Ireland   Business   Foundation, Kapil   Khanna, said:  “The accreditation, which is now held by over 700 firms, is needed by the thousands of small and medium businesses which operate to their own standards but have nothing to measure them by.”

He   added: “We   evaluate   a   company’s   background, trustworthiness and performance, and we speak to customers, employees and vendors. We also anonymously approach the company as a customer and report back on the experience. The business goes through at least two interviews and is scored on every part of the process against set metrics.”

About The All-Ireland Business Foundation

The All-Ireland Business Foundation is an autonomous national accreditation body tasked with enterprise development and the promotion of Best-in-Class Irish businesses.

As the accreditation body for the Business All-Star mark, the AIBF recognises Best-In-Class Irish 

businesses.   Companies   that   merit   recognition   based   on   an   independent   audit   of   their performance, reputation, and customer-centricity.

Business All-Star Accreditation Is The Nation’s Symbol Of Trust. Currently, there are over 700 

companies that are accredited by AIBF. Since 2014, over 5000 companies have participated in their programmes.

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Trainee Blacksmith forging a career at Muckross Traditional Farms

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Phillip Pestor-Young, a trainee blacksmith from County Kildare, is currently gaining experience under Master Blacksmith Tom Allison at Muckross Traditional Farms.

Pestor-Young is enrolled in the All-Ireland Heritage Skills Programme. This programme is a cross-border educational initiative by the King’s Foundation, The Heritage Council, and the Historic Environment Division in Northern Ireland. 

Prior to moving to Ireland in 2019, Phillip trained as an engineer and fabricator in the UK. He is now developing his blacksmithing skills in Kerry.

For more information on the program, visit https://kings-foundation.org/study/all-ireland-heritage-skills-programme/.

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