Many tributes have been paid to Offaly football legend Matt Connor following his retirement from the Garda Siochana last night.

Matt spent nearly 40 years in the force, having been based in Tullamore for most of that time. The Laois-Offaly Garda division described him as "an Offaly legend, a fine policeman and a true gentleman" after he clocked off for a final time at midnight last night.

A member of a famous Walsh Island football family, Matt was a brilliant forward who, along with his brother Richie and cousins Liam (RIP) and Tomas, helped the Faithful County to a famous All-Ireland final victory over five-in-a-row chasing Kerry in 1982.

The three-time All Star was at the height of his football powers when his career was tragically ended by a car accident in 1984, which left him needing a wheelchair.

"Thank you, Matt, from all your colleagues everywhere," a statement on the Laois Offaly Garda division Facebook page read.

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