No second fiddle as college honours duo
Tuesday October 20 2009
FIDDLER extraordinaire Frankie Gavin and RTE newsman Tommie Gorman were both honoured by NUI Galway yesterday.
They were awarded honorary masters degrees to mark outstanding contributions in their respective fields.
Frankie Gavin has toured the world, captivating international audiences with his virtuoso style.
Best known for his work with De Dannan, Frankie has also played with world stars Stephane Grapelli, the Rolling Stones and banjo king Earl Scruggs.
RTE Northern Editor Tommie Gorman began his career with the 'Western Journal' paper in Ballina, Co Mayo, and in 1980 was appointed north-west correspondent with RTE.
He has since headed up RTE's Europe Bureau as well as producing documentaries dealing with his passion for soccer and his battle with cancer.
Today a hometown hero, former Aston Villa star Eamon 'Chick' Deacy -- the only Galwayman to win an English league winner's medal in the old First Division -- will be honoured by the university.
The former Aston Villa full-back will be joined by Brother Sean Mac Conmara, an outstanding teacher and volunteer.
Fr Raymond Browne, who has given a lifetime of community service in the West of Ireland and in Nigeria will be honoured tomorrow.
More than 4,000 students will receive degrees and diplomas at the NUIG autumn conferring ceremonies.
Our main picture by Ray Ryan shows Mr Gorman with with his children Moya and Joe, while Andrew Downes's photo (top left) shows Frankie Gavin at NUIG yesterday with Dr Jim Browne, president of the college, playing second fiddle behind him.
- Brian McDonald
Irish Independent
