The lurgan Grapevine Person of the year 2024
Is the one and only Jay Beatty.
The grapevine was going to hold off on this announcement till closer to the new year.
I thought however it might cheer a few people up today.
Jay for me was the winner of this award every year, but the timing was never quite right. Including dealing with some of the trolls out there that Jays family have to put up with.
Jays impact as well as breaking down the preconceptions of people with Downs (watch the interviews he did with this page to see gifts the young man possesses)
Raising countless thousands for charity.
He has also broken down sectarian barriers.
As well as the trolls that willl attack anything positive. Jay has thousands of fans across the sectarian divide.
Many Rangers fans have reached out to Jay and his family with love.
I want to pay tribute to the whole Beatty family They help to facilitate the wonderful work that Jay does as Celtic charity foundation ambassador and of course downs and proud.
On hand to present the trophy was last years winner. Clann Eiireanns Niamh Murray.
I wore the Derry City top in honour of my Derry pal Kevin Higgins who died last year his family big fans of Jay as well.
Well done Jay take a bow.
