Fine Gael TD for Mayo, Deputy Michelle Mulherin, last week spoke of her sadness at the death of Mayo and Ballina Stephenites footballing legend, Tom Acton.
Deputy Mulherin said that it is with great sadness that she heard of the death of Mr Acton.
“A quiet and unassuming man he was one of the greats of Mayo football and was a key member of the teams that enjoyed success in the 1940s and early 1950s, culminating in back-to-back All-Ireland titles in 1950 and 51.
As a player whose name is inextricably linked to the most successful period in Mayo football, his accomplishments on the field serve as an inspiration to all those who dream of wearing a football jersey, be it with Stephenites, Mayo or one of the many clubs across the county and the commentary on social media in the days after his death is testimony to the affection that people felt towards him.”
She went on to say that “I was delighted that during my tenure as Mayor of Ballina in 2009, Tom and his team mates, the surviving football greats from the Ballina area, including members of the 1950 and '51 All Ireland winning teams, were afforded for the first time the highest honour of a Civic Reception on behalf of the people of Ballina in recognition of their massive accomplishments which guarantee them a place in the annals of history. To his wife and family and wide circle of friends, I extend my deepest sympathy. May he rest in peace.”
