Dubs star Bernard helps Kerry to shine

FAMILY NIGHT: Bernard Brogan with mum Marie and dad Bernard in Listowel

Majella O'Sullivan

DUBLIN footballer Bernard Brogan went to Kerry to turn on the Christmas lights, where he was welcomed 'home'.

"He's one of our own" proclaimed publican Billy Keane to the delight of the Listowel crowd, who turned out to catch a glimpse of the man who denied Kerry their place in this year's All-Ireland final.

About 1,500 people filled the town square in Listowel, much to the relief of the two-time All Ireland winner.

"I had heard that people were thinking of not showing, so it's great to see so many," said the star, who is jetting off to Cancun in Mexico today with his Dublin teammates.

MOTHER

"I'm half Kerry anyway and for years and years we came back here." Bernard's mother, Marie Keane Stack, is from William Street in the town. She was introduced to her future husband, Bernard Brogan Snr, by former Kerry footballer and Arts Minister Jimmy Deenihan at Finuge Carnival in 1976.

hnews@herald.ie