McFall to receive Freedom of Borough

The former Portadown Football Club manager stepped down recently after a 29 year stint at the club.

The freedom proposal was made at the Council meeting last night (Monday) and is the highest honour the council can bestow.

Two separate notices of motion were made, one from the Ulster Unionists and one from the DUP.

A UUP motion for a civic reception to be held for Mr McFall was agreed. It is in recognition of his “tremendous contribution... not only as a professional footballer, but in his service and experiences as a manager of the Northern Ireland International Challenge Trophy Series in 2009 and particularly as the longest serving club manager in European football”.

The DUP later proposed conferring the Freedom of the City and Borough in “recognition of the significant contribution he has made to sport in the borough and in Northern Ireland”.

DUP Councillor Jonny Buckley, who made the proposal said: “Tonight I had the honour and privilege to propose Ronnie McFall MBE for the Freedom of the City, and Borough of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council. This is the highest honour Council can bestow upon an individual! Proud that the first ever ABC Freeman goes to Portadown man Ronnie McFall following 29 years service to Portadown FC.”