'The memories that Vinny gave us will always be cherished'

Derry City FC has lost a huge part of its fanbase with the passing of Vinny Cunningham over the weekend.

There was widespread shock and sadness amongst the club's fanbase at the news of Vinny's death over the past few days, and since then tributes have been paid to a man who had touched people's lives in incredible ways. A husband, father, and grandfather  above all else, Vinny had a huge love for Derry City FC and his passion and knowledge for his craft helped create some special memories for those fortunate enough to know him.

The man who brought top TV series such as Joe Mahon's highly successful Lesser Spotted Ulster as well as the much-lauded Battle of the Bogside, No Go: The Free Derry Story and Insight: Operation Motorman documentaries to our screens, Vinny also played his part in the award-winning BBC documentary 'Different league: The Derry City Story', which was met with such acclaim in 2021.

The club was among the first to pay tribute: "Derry City FC is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our friend and lifelong supporter, Vinny Cunningham.

"A familiar face on the terraces at the Brandywell for decades, Vinny will be fondly remembered for his friendly, good-humoured nature and his role in documenting some of the most important moments in our club’s history through video for future generations to enjoy.

"On behalf of everyone at the club, we extend our deepest condolences to Vinny’s entire family circle at this difficult time."

Supporters' Liaison Officer with the club, Karen Pyne, admitted that the loss of Vinny will leave a huge hole in Block J at the Brandywell.

"Vinny was a massive part of the club, a massive part of Brandywell Pride Supporters' Club, and I think everyone associated with the club knew him personally, from his videos and his great work and documentaries he did for the club," she said.

"For example, I had an idea about the Undertones and the youngsters from Ardnashee when they did it at the Jazz Festival. I asked Vinny of the chances of The Undertones doing 'Teenage Kicks' with the youngsters and without Vinny's help it wouldn't have happened, and an amazing day it was. There's a massive respect for Vinny for everything he's done.

"In terms of Brandywell Pride, this is probably the third big member of our club who has passed away. As well as big Hugh Curran there was Barney Barnfield and now Vinny. Vinny has always been there, following the club home and away, taking photographs. It's just so hard to take and there's going to be a massive hole in Block J.

"He was so excited for the new season and he had his season ticket sorted and he was ready to rock, but unfortunately it wasn't to be, but I'm sure he has a better seat up there than any of us now. It's just shocking. My heart goes out to Deborah and Niall and Orla and the rest of the family. He was such a big personally who loved the club."

The Undertones also paid tribute online, stating: "It is with great sadness that we heard the shocking news of the passing of our dear friend, the film maker Vinny Cunningham, after a short illness.

"A true champion of the band, his involvement with us from the early days to the present cannot be overstated.

"Our relationship with Vinny goes way back to the days when he and his brother Daniel would hang around outside The O’Neill house  listening to us practice.

"Fittingly, both Vinny and Daniel make an appearance in Julian Temple’s My Perfect Cousin video. Possibly this video sparked 14 yr old Vinny’s interest to pursue a career in film making.

"Vinny made many films and documentaries for TV over the years including his dream project in 2001, co writing, filming and producing (along with Tommy Collins) ’Teenage Kicks: The Undertones’ documentary.   Vinny’s charm and enthusiasm not only persuaded a skeptical Feargal Sharkey to take part but also he was pivotal in getting John Peel to participate.

"The days we got to share with John Peel in Derry while filming will forever be cherished.

"We last saw Vinny in December at Derry’s Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium where he filmed us performing Teenage. Kicks with the children from Ardnashee School. Our condolences to his wife Deborah and family. He will be sorely missed. RIP."

Vinny’s remains will be reposing at his late family residence, 20 Inishowen Gardens, with his funeral leaving from there on Tuesday 11th February at 11:20am for 12pm Requiem Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Creggan. Burial will take place immediately afterwards in the City Cemetery.