BT/0208

Stars offer to help Omagh victims
STEVEN BEACOM

THE biggest names in British sport have pledged to raise money for those who suffered in last weekend's horrific Omagh bombing.
The five giants of British football; Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester United, Celtic and Rangers have all contacted Omagh Town with the view to coming over to Tyrone and playing friendly games with proceeds going to the Trust Fund, set up in the aftermath of the atrocity.
And Dungannon golfer Darren Clarke is to organise a pro-am tournament which could raise upwards of £150,000 for the Omagh fund.
Clarke announced his plans last night at the European Open golf championship at the K club in Co Kildare.
It is hoped the event, to be staged on September 14 at the Portmarnock links, near Dublin, will involve members of the victorious Ryder Cup team and other top golfers.
Clarke is particularly keen to have Spanish golfers on board because two of the 28 people who were killed were from Spain.
Britain's top football clubs are also keen to help in the form of a charity match or matches to be played in Omagh.
"All of them have European commitments at the moment, but to their credit all five have said they would like to come over when dates allow, to play against Omagh Town with the money raised going to the Trust Fund," said Omagh Town manager McCreadie.
Officials from the club have held discussions with the local council about the prospect.
And already major airlines have indicated they would fly over any of the five giants free of charge if and when the games take place.
Given the interest such a match or matches would bring it is unlikely at this stage that St Julian's Road, Omagh's home ground, would have the capacity to be the host.
A more likely prospect is to play at St Enda's GAA pitch in the town which has a capacity of around 22,000.
There's even the possibility in the future that a game may be held at Windsor Park between two of the big five, again in aid of those affected by the Omagh bombing.
As a mark of respect to the victims of the tragedy, sport all over Ireland was set to come to a standstill today at 3.10pm for a minute's silence.