A RYANAIR pilot received a special guard of honour at an Irish airport after his “penultimate flight in charge”.

Captain George O’Hara was celebrated after his last flight this week.

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The veteran pilot’s plane was hosed by Kerry Airport fire crew after landing.

With 39 years of service to Ryanair, Captain O’Hara is the airline’s most senior pilot.

Kerry Airport have taken to Facebook to share the announcement.

They said: “Captain George O’Hara received a guard of honour from Kerry Airport fire crew after arriving on his penultimate flight in charge.

“May retirement bring you the same joy and freedom as soaring through the air.

“Here’s to smooth skies ahead and the very best wishes from all at Kerry Airport.”

Captain George O’Hara began working for the Irish airline back in 1986, only two years after the company was founded.

People have taken to the comment section to wish George a happy retirement.

One person wrote: “Wishing you all the very best in retirement George.

“As a direct entry captain at Ryanair last year you made me feel part of the company and shared some very wise words which will always be appreciated.”

Another said: “Thank you for taking everyone safely to their destinations, enjoy retirement.”

Meanwhile, passengers are being warned in advance of Dublin Airport’s busiest day during the mid-term break.

Families from across Ireland are set to jet off for a break over the mid-term, which runs throughout this week.

And Dublin Airport is reporting that during the mid-term break, around 836,000 passengers are set to travel through the airport.

The busiest days are set to be Friday, February 21, and Sunday, February 23.

During this weekend, an estimated 97,000 passengers will travel through the airport each day.

Next weekend is set to be the busiest of the year for two reasons: the mid-term break, and the thousands of rugby fans travelling for the Wales v Ireland Six Nations rugby match on Saturday, February 22.

Taking to X, formerly Twitter, Dublin Airport chiefs warned: “Our car parks are set to be busy over the coming days.

“Passengers are advised to book their space online in advance to secure their space and to avail of the best rates.”

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A TWO-YEAR-OLD and woman in her 20s have been rushed to hospital after a horror crash near a pub.

Cops were called out at around 6.30pm on Monday, February 17, after a smash on the A3102 Swindon Road in Royal Wootton Bassett, Wiltshire.

Emergency services transported a two-year-old toddler to hospital with injuries not believed to be life-threatening or changing.

One of the drivers, a woman in her 20s, and her male passenger were also treated in hospital for minor injuries.

The crash involved a blue Volkswagen Golf and a silver Volvo V40.

Thames Valley Police have now appealed for information that could help with their investigation.

A spokesperson for the force said: “We are appealing for witnesses following a road traffic collision on the A3102 Swindon Road, Royal Wootton Bassett, just after 6.30pm on Monday, February 17.

“If you saw what happened or have dash cam footage of the incident, please contact us on 101 quoting the reference number 54250020704.

“You can also report to us through our website.”

THE six-year-old son of Lionel Messi emulated the legend himself with an incredible solo goal for Inter Miami.

Ciro Messi left spectators stunned when he picked up the ball from his own half before dribbling past three players and poking his shot into the bottom-right corner of the target.

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The youngster scored the wonder goal while playing for Inter Miami‘s academy.

And it went viral on social media earlier this week.

One person commented: “Yeah that’s Messi’s son alright. You don’t teach that shoulder drop dribble easily.”

Another wrote: “I have seen enough. He’s the chosen one. Send him to La Masia.”

A third said: “This kid got talent omg.”

While a fourth added: “Look at the way he finished it wow, this kid moves just like his pops.”

Ciro’s goal was very similar to his dad’s outstanding solo effort against Getafe in 2007.

After receiving the ball inside his own half, Messi ran through half the Getafe team before dribbling around goalkeeper Luis Garcia and passing into the bottom corner.

Messi was just 19-years-old when he scored the stunning goal.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner scored 672 goals and provided 303 assists in 778 appearances for Barcelona during his 17-year spell in the first team.

He was forced to leave on a free transfer in 2021 and spent two years with Paris Saint-Germain before moving to the United States.

The Argentina captain is now the star man at Inter Miami.

His two other sons, Mateo and Thiago, also play for the club’s academy.

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TAKE a look at the little-known sunshine spot with historical sites, delicious cuisine, sandy beaches and €25 Ryanair flights from Dublin.

Brindisi is a stunning city located on the southeastern coast of Italy.

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Getty Images - Getty

Getty Images - Getty

Brindisi has warm, sunny springs and summers, with temperatures often reaching around 30°C.

This historic port city is often regarded as one of the most underrated spots in Italy, with its ancient Roman landmarks, stunning coastal views and sandy beaches.

The city is surrounded by charming, historic buildings, beautiful waterfronts and lovely parks that are known for their Mediterranean charm.

And with Ryanair flights from Dublin starting at just €25 this spring, now is the perfect time to visit.

Brindisi’s coastline is dotted with stunning beaches and natural parks, offering visitors the perfect spot to enjoy the Mediterranean beauty.

The clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling or simply soaking up the sun with a drink.

Brindisi’s main beaches Lido Azzurro and Torre Guaceto are both lovely spots for families or those looking to enjoy a day in the sun on the soft sand.

For a more calm experience away from the crowds, the beaches of Cala Toni offer quiet spots where you can enjoy the stunning coastline in peace.

Whether you’re after a day of relaxation or looking for a bit of adventure in the water, Brindisi’s coastline offers plenty of options to suit every holidaymaker.

For history lovers, Brindisi’s Old Town is a must-visit.

This charming district is home to historic buildings like the Roman columns, the Church of San Giovanni, and the stunning Castello Svevo.

Exploring Brindisi’s Old Town is like stepping back in time, with its narrow streets, historic structures and mix of cultures that date back to Roman times.

For nature lovers, the nearby Torre Guaceto Nature Reserve offers stunning views and untouched landscapes, perfect for birdwatching and taking pictures.

The city is also known for its delicious cuisine, and it is often far more affordable than in other Italian cities.

Delicious cuisine

Brindisi’s waterfront is lined with excellent restaurants and cafes serving fresh fish, grilled meats and local specialties like orecchiette pasta.

For a drink, expect to pay around €2 to €4 for a local beer or €3 to €5 for a glass of Puglia’s famous Primitivo wine at one of the city’s seaside bars.

Brindisi’s nightlife is also lively, with beach bars and nightclubs offering a great atmosphere for enjoying cocktails or a drink with a view of the sea.

What’s more, Brindisi offers many upscale bars and lounges in the heart of the city – perfect for a glamorous night out.

Along with its natural beauty and historical landmarks, Brindisi hosts many cultural festivals throughout the year, such as the Brindisi Dance Film Festival.

With affordable flights, delicious cuisine and stunning beaches, Brindisi is the perfect spot for anyone looking to explore the beauty of this southern Italian gem.

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The post New Delhi: PM Modi and the Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, witness the exchange of MoUs #Gallery appeared first on Social News XYZ.

A FASHION fan has found the perfect coat for spring that she’s “going to live in” – and it costs just €30.

The new Hooded Diamond Quilted Jacket is available online and in shops around the country now.

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tiktok

It comes just as shoppers are ditching their winter wardrobes and hunting for spring pieces.

The lightweight coat is ideal for the in-between weather often seen in February and March.

And one delighted shopper has taken to social media to show off the look.

Emma Horgan, who goes by @emmahorgan_x on TikTok, showed off how she styled the coat.

In a video, she posed in the coat and paired it with white socks and black leggings.

She said: “I’m going to live in this coat from Dunnes Stores.”

The hooded jacket comes in three lovely colours ideal for walking in nature – blue, black, and khaki.

It costs just €30 and comes in sizes XS up to XXL.

Fashion bosses called the piece “a great option”.

An official description reads: “Designed in a diamond-quilted texture, this jacket has a high neck, zip pockets, dipped hems, and a hood.

“Lightweight and shower resistant, it’s a great option for transitional weather.”

Meanwhile, fashion fans have been in a frenzy over a blue suit with matching trousers and waistcoat.

The classy outfit is perfect for formal occasions and can be bought separately or worn together.

The trousers cost €30 and can be found in sizes 8 to 20.

The jacket costs €45 and comes in the same sizes, and the waistcoat is priced at €30 in sizes 8 to 20.

An official description of the blazer reads: “A go-to piece for dressier occasions, these trousers from Gallery can be paired with the matching blazer to create a smart and tailored look.”

“Designed with a wide leg and a high waist, they feature front darts, belt loops, and are finished with welt pockets on the back.

“Matching items available; sold separately.

“Gallery is available exclusively at Dunnes Stores.”

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THE HISTORY OF DUNNES STORES

DUNNES Stores opened its first store on Patrick Street in Cork in 1944 - and it was an instant hit.

Shoppers from all over the city rushed to the store to snap up quality clothing at pre-war prices in Ireland’s first ‘shopping frenzy’.

During the excitement, a window was forced in and the police had to be called to help control the crowds hoping to bag founder Ben Dunne’s ‘Better Value’ bargains.

Dunnes later opened more stores in the 1950s and began to sell groceries in 1960 – starting with apples and oranges.

The retailer said: “Fruit was expensive at the time and Ben Dunne yet again offered Better Value than anyone else in town.

“Over time, our food selection has grown and that spirit of good value has remained strong.

“Now we offer a wide range of carefully-sourced foods from both local Irish suppliers and overseas.”

The retailer’s first Dublin store opened its doors in 1957 on Henry Street and a super store on South Great Georges Street was unveiled in 1960.

They added: “In 1971, our first Northern Irish store opened, and many others soon followed.

“Expansion continued in the 1980s in Spain, and later into Scotland and England.”

Dunnes now has 142 stores and employs 15,000 people.