Northern Ireland v Austria

Barry's son Rhys Williamson beside his prized signed Gareth McAuley shirt

Tommy’s Lair is a treasure trove of Northern Ireland memorabilia, but Glenda would love to get her paws on the Holy Grail: Gerry Armstrong’s shirt from the Spain game at World Cup ‘82. However, as Gerry himself told me, he swapped it with “the little Spanish winger” after the game! That ship may have sailed but Glenda and her GAWA gal pals love getting together to watch matches at this bright and breezy bar. And what happens in Tommy’s Lair stays in Tommy’s Lair. “Only my family and close friends get to go in,” says Glenda. “Thank God the shed can’t talk!” Like Glenda, Tandragee’s Barry Williamson has found solace in his GAWA-inspired space, having sadly lost his wife just a few years ago. “I always had the idea of having a Northern Ireland-themed bar in the house and during lockdown I was off for four weeks and made this my project,” he explains.

“The bar is great when having friends and family around (when allowed) during the hard times at present, though it would never compare to the actual match day and standing in the Kop.” And Barry’s favourite piece of Northern Ireland memorabilia takes centre stages at the bar for an equally emotive reason. “Gareth McAuley gave my son Rhys his match-worn t-shirt before we headed to the Euros and that meant a lot to him.” Alongside that prized souvenir is a signed George Best t-shirt, Pat Jennings signed gloves and a book signed by Peter McParland who Barry describes as “a legend of a man”. Northern Ireland games get under your skin, and even though they are unable to experience that unique Windsor Park atmosphere these fans have ensured a lifetime of unforgettable match day memories in their very own homes. Build it and they will come…

Glenda Farr with GAWA gal pals Debbie and Karen at Tommy's Lair

Raymond 'DJ' Wlison with children Cody and Rayanne at his bespoke Bushmills IFA table and chair

Ormonde McDowell sitting proudly in his GAWAMancave

Ray's Tavern with unique NI cushions

43

www.irishfa.com