Jimmy's period with St. Colman's in Newry, his exploits with his club Clan na Gael during the greatest part of their history and the fact that he captained his club, county, province and country in a single year all speak volumes about his leadership qualities which transgress beyond the field of play.

The BBC reporter enthuses about Gaelic Football but for almost four decades, Jimmy was an institution at St. Paul's where pupils and fellow teachers had a fondness for the man's wit and humour.

Many newspaper columns have been filled with stories surrounding one of Lurgan and Armagh's favourite sons who, considering the fact that he is a fellow Evertonian, has very good tastes outside of the GAA world as well.

As he becomes accustomed to a quieter life in retirement, the 'Mail' gives Jimmy the oppurtunity to talk about his many years spent teaching and coaching local pupils.

Events at the Francis Street school are never far from the mind of Mr. Smyth, so after 37 years, what were the highs, lows and memories of Jimmy's time in St. Paul's Junior High?