Remembering Jim McKinstry

Jan 28, 2019 | Archive

LARNE Football Club has been deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jim McKinstry.

Jim, and the McKinstry family, has been associated with the club for more than half a century.

He ensured his name would go down in the history books of the club when he capped a rare Steel and Sons Cup double. Firstly, he successfully captained Larne in the Steel Cup decider of 1964, and then, as manager, claimed the first of the four in a row Steel and Sons Cup triumphs, beating Glentoran Seconds in the 1968 final.

As a player, the towering defender also turned out for Cliftonville, Distillery and Glenavon. He collected two caps for Northern Ireland’s Amateur side between 1957-1959, as well as Schoolboy caps prior to that, in the late 1940’s.

Off the pitch, Jim made a significant contribution to the club, taking temporary charge of the team alongside secretary Billy Simms in 1975, as well as having a spell as vice-Chairman of the club.

Son John played for the club for the best part of two decades, a rugged defender in the mould of his father.

Having run the fruit shop, which bore the family name for many years, Jim is well known across the town. He was also an accomplished golfer, like the two generations which have followed.

His warm, friendly and helpful character were known to many, whether through football, golf or business circles. We unite in sending the entire family our sympathies.

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