Former Antrim footballer Anto Finnegan dies aged 48

Finnegan was a campaigner for MND after being diagnosed with the disease in 2012

Former Antrim footballer Anto Finnegan has died aged 48. Photograph: Andrew Paton/Inpho

Former Antrim footballer Anto Finnegan has died aged 48.

Finnegan, who played for Antrim for 11 years, was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease in 2012 at 39-years-old.

The Belfast man went on to found the charity deterMND, for whom he was a tireless campaigner and fundraiser.

Finnegan’s death was confirmed by his former club, St Paul’s: “It is with the upmost sadness that we learn of the passing of our friend, former player, coach, mentor & ambassador Anto Finnegan.

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“This world has lost a fine man. Our deepest sympathies to Alison, Conall, Ava & the Finnegan & Dowdall families.

“Suaimhneas síoraí dá anam uasal.”

Dublin’s Brian Fenton also paid tribute to Finnegan: “Rest In Peace Anto Finnegan. Legend doesn’t do him service.”