It was the wettest night of the year. This did not stop the friends and neighbours of Johnny Duffy turning up to O'Reilly's on Seafort Avenue for a final farewell to the Sandymount barber, Johnny Duffy. Johnny spent forty four years in Sandymount. It was fitting that the elder statesman of Seafort Villas, Mickey Stenson, made the presentation. Four generations of the Stenson family have attended the barber's shop on Seafort Avenue, which has now made way for (you've guessed it!) apartments.

In a moving speech both Johnny and his wife Alice paid great tribute to the friendliness and homeliness that was always in Sandymount for them. Though living on the northside, they regarded Sandymount as their real home. It was an entertaining night which was greatly added to by the ballad singing of Tony Robinson. He set the mood for John Handley, Eamonn Prenderville, the Mooney twins, Des and William to add their fine voices to the occasion. John's wife Alice stole the show for the ladies with Margaret Handley, Anne Robinson, Mrs. Mullins, Madge O'Neill, Maureen Dowling, Bibi Whearity, and Mrs. O'Reilly giving great support.

Special thanks must go to Paul O'Reilly for providing the catering provisions and to Bibi Whearity and her sister Helen for making up the rake of sandwiches from his generosity.

Finally to Johnny Duffy who has moved to Ringsned, thanks for the memories. (above right) The elder statesman of Seafort Villas, Mickey Stenson, making a presentation to Johnny Duffy on behalf of the friends and neighbours of Seafort Villas and Avenue. (above left) Johnny and his wife Alice.