Neighbours are tight-lipped on family’s big win

MOST neighbours in the tight-knit working-class community declined to comment on the Cunninghams’ newfound wealth yesterday.

“It’s up to them if they want to go public with this,” said a man on Fair Hill out for a morning walk with his Jack Russell.

But everyone in the Cunninghams’ estate agreed that it couldn’t have happened to a nicer family.

“I’ve known Paul for years and he’s a very level-headed guy. He’s devoted to Helen, and they’re both devoted to their kids. This won’t go to their heads at all,” said another local man, who also declined to be named.

Albie Allen, the president of Na Piarsaigh GAA club just across the road, also declined to comment officially on the record Lotto win.

But he said there was great excitement in the club on Saturday night.

A ripple of excitement turned into a frenzy when word swept through the club bar that Barry Two-mey’s store had sold the winning ticket, he said.

“Everyone was checking their ticket straight away. I wish whoever won it the very best of luck,” he said.

Two of the Cunninghams’ boys are described as fanatical GAA fans — the youngest plays with the local club. Despite the fact his parents are now multimillionaires, he togged off and went training with his club’s hurling team yesterday morning.

Reporters were not welcome at the Berehaven Bar yesterday afternoon.

It was not clear whether Mr Cunningham was working behind the bar, as he has done for several years.

But as Cork played out a thriller with Waterford on the TVs inside, his regulars kept the media at a safe distance outside.

Smokers standing at the door would only let those they knew step inside.

Patrons let a few pictures be taken of them toasting the Cunning-hams’ success but they remained tight-lipped when reporters arrived.

It was standing room only in the pub last night as celebrations continued.