FROM a hate figure for 60,000 people in a football ground to a standing ovation from 400 in the Tullyglass House Hotel...
That was the remarkable transformation made by former Premiership referee David Elleray during his visit to Ballymena last week.
The Harrow schoolmaster enthralled guests at the black-tie function with tales from his refereeing career - including red-carding Roy Keane on no less than FOUR occasions, brushes with the KGB in Russia and death threats from hate-filled football 'supporters' - as the joint Ballymena United/Youth Academy event proved a huge success.
"It proved to be a great evening, David Elleray was an excellent speaker and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves," reflected Gerry Lawn, of organisers United Promotions.
For photos from the evening, click
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