RESIDENTS in a Northside housing estate came together last Saturday week to unveil a plaque in memory of a hugely popular neighbour.
Carmel Cooper, who passed away in November 2018, was well-known in the area, especially in sporting circles.
The memorial plague – ‘Cooper’s Corner’ – was erected on a wall in Woodville Estate, off Kilmore Road.
Carmel set up Woodville Camogie Club 45 years ago and they would go on to enjoy unbelievable success, winning Feiles, Community Games events and club championships.
A lot of the team’s members went on to play for Dublin and achieved notable successes in their county colours.
Local woman Suzanne Strong, who was involved in organising the plaque and the unveiling ceremony, said: “I have six All Ireland Gold Medals under her watch. Carmel and her husband also ran the local athletics club where many of the members became fantastic athletes.
“Cooper’s Corner (i.e. Carmel’s house) was always open and for the local community it was a home from home: a fun place, a safe place, a meeting place, a fantastic place.
“Carmel was a mentor in sport and in life, and the camogie team of 45 years ago organised the event to celebrate her life.”
Suzanne added: “Carmel had a remarkable way of making everyone feel special. She had your back and she was always in your corner. She was ‘Cooper’s Corner’.”
During the ceremony Carmel’s grandson, Cormac, sang one of her favourite songs that he penned himself.