CORK City’s Chief Superintendent Barry McPolin has paid tribute to the work of two “stalwart” members of the force as they hang up their hats.

Togher’s Community Garda Aidan O’Connor and Garda Eleanor O’Kelly from the Bridewell Garda Station have both retired in recent days.

Garda Kelly had been with the force for the past 35 years and Chief Supt McPolin said she will be a great loss to her station.

“She had a great rapport with the community there, both business and community and the locals. There was a great turnout at the Bridewell for her farewell function,” he said.

Garda Kelly has served in frontline policing as well as spending the last 10-12 years attached to the warrant department.

The Chief Superintendent, who used to be the Superintendent of Togher, said he had worked alongside Community Garda Aidan O’Connor and was well aware of his contribution.

“I worked alongside Aidan for three years. I am well aware of the great work he did and the legacy he left after him,” he said.

“A great stalwart of community policing in Togher for several years. His contribution is well acknowledged by the local community.

“He has been very active, working with the communities, particularly the youths, and the community leaders in Togher and Ballyphehane,” he added.

Chief Supt McPolin thanked both members of the force for their dedicated and loyal service.

“They will be a great loss and we are sorry to see them go, however, retirement comes to everybody and we wish the very best to them and their families in the future.”