ABOVE PHOTO: Newry Captain Jackie Bowers, is pictured in the bottom row (middle)

It is with the greatest sympathy and deepest sadness that we report the death in Ardoyne, Belfast, on Sunday (April 16), of one of our club’s great all time players,  Jackie Bowers.

An outstanding centre-half, Jackie first signed for the club during the 1953/54 season and was immediately appointed Town Captain, a position he held for the following seven seasons. During this time Jackie led Newry to three consecutive Irish Alliance League titles, the 1957/58 Irish Intermediate Cup and the 1959/60 Irish League B Championship.

Jackie’s contribution and fantastic commitment to Newry Town FC during those seven wonderful seasons was indeed very significant and he was adored by all of the club’s fans.

At the age of 36, Jackie was also capped by Northern Ireland at Junior International Level.

A minute’s silence will be observed prior to the match at home to Donegal Celtic on Tuesday evening (April 18), in memory of Jackie.

Everybody at Newry City AFC would like to our extend deepest sympathy and most sincere condolences to the Bowers Family and the wider Family Circle, at this sad time.