Neeson Remembers His Roots

By Brendan Anderson

ACTOR Liam Neeson, not one to forget his Irish roots, has delighted staff at his old Co. Antrim school with his thoughtfulness by giving it credit for making him the person he is today.

And the Hollywood superstar, who was born in Ballymena near the magically-beautiful Glens of Antrim, also praised his English teacher Gerry McKeown for helping him on the road to a successful acting career.

Neeson took time out to fax his letter to St. Patrick’s College, which he attended for four years, when he found he was unable to attend the 45th anniversary of the school’s founding this week. However, his mother Kitty and sister Elizabeth were present and attended Mass and a celebratory dinner afterwards.

In his letter to college principal Catherine Magee, the big man wrote, “My gosh, can it really be 45 years? I entered the school for the first time in September 1964 and had four very happy years there. 

“The school effectively formed the person I am today and through my English teacher at the time, Gerry McKeown, I found my profession in life. I am having a trip down memory lane as I write this but let me just wish you, your staff, your pupils and especially the school itself a very happy anniversary. I trust you will celebrate this birthday in true Irish style. I know I will.”

Neeson has been spotted frequently in the Glens of Antrim in recent years, and college staffers are hoping he will drop in soon for a belated celebration.