Death mourned of Jim McClenaghan, former Lough Foyle Ferry owner

Tributes have been paid following the death of Jim McClenaghan, the former operator of the Lough Foyle Ferry.

Mr McClenaghan passed away at his home in St. Martin’s, Poundtown, Greencastle.

Regarded as an 'innovative and successful fisherman' in his own youth, he was behind the launch of the Lough Foyle Ferry service in 2002.

Within three years, the service – which runs between Greencastle and Magilligan Point – carried its one millionth passenger.

It is estimated that the ferry carries 250,000 passengers a year. In 2015, Foyle Venture was bought by Limerick-based company Frazer Ferries.

Mr McClenaghan is a former Chairman of Greencastle FC, who he also served as a committee member and reserve team manager..

As manager in 1994/1995 he guided the Greeks to the Reserve League title and the Inishowen League Team of the Year in 1996/1997.

Greencastle FC say the club 'will remember Jim so fondly'.

In a tribute they said: “Probably Jim’s highlight with GFC was serving as Chairman of a very committed and hard working committee that developed and opened our grounds at Chapel Lane in July 1998, no deadline or job was too much for Jim and the committee.”

Greencastle FC conveyed sympathies to his wife Maureen, daughters Bridgeen, Elizabeth, Mary, Charlene, son James, daughter-in-law and son in laws, grandchildren, brother and sisters, extended family and friends.

Funeral arrangements have yet to be confirmed.