Legendary Man City goalkeeper with strong Roscommon connections receives MBE
Big Joe Corrigan demonstrates his handspan in a 1969 photoshoot.
Legendary Man City goalkeeper Joe Corrigan, whose father Thomas hailed from County Roscommon, has received an MBE in the New Year’s honours list in the UK for services to charitable fundraising.
Corrigan, known affectionately as ‘Big Joe’, played for City 603 times between 1967 and 1983, and played nine times for England.
The 76-year-old is currently an ambassador with the Manchester club.
His father Thomas came from the townland of Rooskey, a few miles outside Ballaghaderreen on the way to Loughglynn in West Roscommon. The former player has been a frequent visitor to the area over the years.
Two of his second cousins in Ballaghaderreen, siblings Pat and Imelda Towey, have congratulated Joe on his notable achievement. Pat even had an opportunity to extend his good wishes to Big Joe directly over the phone.
Corrigan’s father Thomas and the Toweys' grandmother Sarah Lynch Corrigan, were brother and sister. Sarah was the mother of Pat and Imelda’s mother, Annie Towey.
An MBE is awarded for outstanding achievement and service to the community.
