SOCCER STAR REALISES DREAM FOR BLAST BOY
Soccer star set to realise dream for bomb blast boy
By Suzanne Rodgers
IRISH International and Leeds Utd star Ian Harte has promised to make a dream come true for one of the youngest victims of the Omagh bomb blast. Harte made a special trip to Altnagelvin Hospital in Londonderry to meet eight-year-old Emmett McLaughlin who is recovering from severe stomach, facial and hand injuries. And he brought a big smile to the Buncrana boy's face when he promised him two VIP tickets for a match at Elland Road when he is fully recovered.
Emmett was knocked unconscious by the Omagh bomb blast in which his cousin Oran Doherty died. When he began to come round the first name on his lips was that of Ian Harte. Staff at the Erne Hospital contacted Leeds Utd and told them of the boy's devotion to the club, and Ian Harte in particular, resulting in yesterday's visit. Yesterday clutching his autographed Leeds Utd strip and Republic of Ireland jersey Emmett could hardly find words to say thanks: "It's great to have Ian come see me."
Clearly touched by the occasion, the 21 year old Dubliner said "I was really shocked that someone was thinking of me. It really brought a tear to my eye. I was really looking forward to getting over here and I am delighted to see him.
"I am lost for words really."
By Suzanne Rodgers
IRISH International and Leeds Utd star Ian Harte has promised to make a dream come true for one of the youngest victims of the Omagh bomb blast. Harte made a special trip to Altnagelvin Hospital in Londonderry to meet eight-year-old Emmett McLaughlin who is recovering from severe stomach, facial and hand injuries. And he brought a big smile to the Buncrana boy's face when he promised him two VIP tickets for a match at Elland Road when he is fully recovered.
Emmett was knocked unconscious by the Omagh bomb blast in which his cousin Oran Doherty died. When he began to come round the first name on his lips was that of Ian Harte. Staff at the Erne Hospital contacted Leeds Utd and told them of the boy's devotion to the club, and Ian Harte in particular, resulting in yesterday's visit. Yesterday clutching his autographed Leeds Utd strip and Republic of Ireland jersey Emmett could hardly find words to say thanks: "It's great to have Ian come see me."
Clearly touched by the occasion, the 21 year old Dubliner said "I was really shocked that someone was thinking of me. It really brought a tear to my eye. I was really looking forward to getting over here and I am delighted to see him.
"I am lost for words really."
Further Information
Publisher: BELFAST TELEGRAPH
Ref: BT/0337
Published Date: 31-Aug-98
Related Images
There have been no images archived for this article.