Cahal and I met in 1998 at the University of Huddersfield. We were both doing the same course at the time and we became real friends. As students do, we enjoyed a drink and we had many laughs in the student union and the Old hatte, where he, even at that young age seemed to know everybody and everybody knew him. He was the secretary of the County Mayo Manchester City supporters club, demonstrating his acumen for taking charge and the lead at such a young age. We had some terrific days at Maine Road as a result, and I had the privilege of meeting his family who lived so close to the ground on more than one occasion. The funniest time that I can remember, and there were many, was of us being out for a few after lectures was having a curry at Shabab's on Valentine's night surrounded by couples enjoying the occasion. I recommended the shami kebabs to start and they arrived shaped as love hearts! As two drunk straight fellas, we looked at each other and laughed so hard it was ridiculous! After university my family was invited and enjoyed the christening of Shannon which was a wonderful occasion at the Irish centre. After that we lost touch mainly due to all of the commitments that we both had, but with me being an Evertonian, he still remembered years later to message me and give me his tickets to the match when Huddersfield played against the toffees when they were in the premiership. He was thoughtful like that. He left an indelible mark on a very significant period of my life. He was funny, kind, incredibly loyal, and above all, an exceptional man and I'm proud to be able to say that he was my friend. Rest in peace Cahal.
Mr Jason W Barker
08/04/2026
