Kildare pensioner gets speeding charge dismissed
Photo for illustrative purposes only
AN octogenarian summoned for speeding had his charge struck out after the judge discovered he was still an active rower.
Thomas Kirby of Holmswood, Barrettstown, Newbridge was appearing in Naas District Court after being clocked doing 98kph in Tankards Gardens, Newbridge on 5 May 2024, where the limit is just 60kph.
After being called, 83-year-old Kirby strode sprightly down the court room, prompting Judge Desmond Zaidan to ask: “what’s his secret?”
“Tennis,” replied Kirby’s lawyer Joe Coonan.
“No, it’s rowing boats,” said the defendant.
“Well done!” said a clearly impressed judge, “are you part of a team?” “Yes, at Islandbridge (on the Liffey),” he replied.
“Good on you, you’re not a couch potato,” smiled the judge, but who clarified when he noticed Kirby’s quizzical look.
“You know, a couch potato, sitting on the couch supporting Man United,” said the unapologetic supporter of the Premiership-winning side.
“You keep up the rowing,” said the judge, as he struck out the summons.
