MICHAEL Dempsey, former master and huntsman of the Galway Blazers for 40 seasons, celebrated his 95th birthday last week at the home of his son Tom who whipped-in to him for 10 seasons before taking over the horn from his father for another 20 seasons.

Tom’s wife Mairead, who with Tom has lovingly cared for Michael, is a domestic science teacher made a special birthday cake. His nieces – Rose, a former joint-master, Carmel and Joan – joined in the social distance celebrations.