Inishowen mourns death of leading women's football figure Patricia Harkin

Tributes have been paid following the death of Inishowen women's football stalwart Patricia Harkin.

The Culdaff woman passed away on Friday.

For many years, Patricia served as the treasurer of the Inishowen Women's Football League.

The daughter of former Culdaff FC President Mandy Harkin, Patricia played for the Caratra Park club at youth and senior level.

“Patricia was a kind and gentle soul,” Culdaff FC said in a tribute.

“It was no surprise she chose nursing as her vocation where she gave many years dedicated service.

“Dancing with her friends or playing a game of whist brought Patricia so much enjoyment in her life. She had a deep faith and her last trip to Lourdes meant the world to her.”

The Inishowen Women's Football League said it was saddened to learn of her passing.

In a statement, they said: “Patricia served as the League Treasurer for a number of years and was a regular attendee on Women's Cup Final days in Maginn Park.

“The League would like to offer their sincere condolences to her brother and sisters and wider family circle.”

Late of Muff, Culdaff, Patricia Harkin will be sadly missed by her brother and sisters, Declan, Celia, Nuala and Linda, her nieces and nephews, wider family circle, friends and neighbours.

Her funeral takes place on Monday at St Mary's Church, Bocan.