Louth's legendary kit man Charlie McAlester passed away on Tuesday, April 17th, 2012. Charlie was a giant of Louth GAA and his passing has left a void that can never be filled. The Newtown Blues clubman brought kit management to a new level of professionalism during 35 years working with all Louth teams and also had the honour of acting as kit manager to the Irish International Rules team. He was forced to step down from his role three years ago, when he was diagnosed with cancer. Sadly, Charlie lost that battle during the year but he will be fondly remembered as one of the Wee County's greatest servants and most-passionate supporters. In November 2009, Louth's much-loved kit manager stepped down. The inimitable Charlie had become an instantly-recognisable face at all Louth matches over the years, having given incredible service to the GAA. Widely regarded as the greatest servant that Louth GAA has ever had, Charles James Riordan McAlester was given a guard of honour by Louth's footballers as he took his final journey. He may never have represented his county on the field of play but Charlie helped countless others to do so in real style and will be remembered as a genuine Wee County legend. Hundreds of gaels attended his funeral and the presence of well-known figures like Pete McGrath, Robbie O'Malley, Pat McEnaney, Colm O'Rourke, Brian Carthy, Bernard Flynn, Graham Geraghty and Patsy Coleman alongside a host of Louth footballers past and present speaks for itself.