Roy Keane reveals softer side with surprise visit to Cork food bank giving out free meals to those in need
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Roy Keane reveals softer side with surprise visit to Cork food bank giving out free meals to those in need

ROY KEANE surprised volunteers at a food bank in Cork after paying a special visit to the charity handing out free food to those in need.

The fiery Irishman has courted controversy in recent weeks with a series of scathing attacks on some of the Premier League’s biggest clubs and stars.

England international and Manchester City defender Kyle Walker was branded an “idiot” by Keane following a spot of “car crash defending” while Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea came in for similarly stern criticism from the outspoken Sky Sports pundit.

However, Keane proved he has a softer, more caring side too after taking the time to drop in on local charity Cork Penny Dinners to help them with their invaluable work.

One of Cork’s oldest charities, Cork Penny Dinners give away up to 2,000 meals per day.

And with many families across the region feeling the pinch in the current Covid-19 pandemic, the efforts of these incredible volunteers are needed now more than ever.

Keane was only too happy to drop-in to show his support for their efforts, briefly taking off his face mask to pose for pictures with some of the heroic helpers on duty that day.

It’s not the first time the former Manchester United captain has paid a visit to Cork Penny Dinners either, according to volunteer Catriona Twomey.

“He had time for everyone,” she told radio station 96fm.

“One of our volunteers didn’t believe it, because Roy was wearing the mask.

“It only came off for the photograph.

"It was only then the volunteer believed it... he thought we were pranking him!

“He’s very good to us, Roy. He always pops in.”

A well-known and long-established charity in the local area, those visiting Cork Penny Meals can look forward to soup, a main course, dessert and tea or coffee as standard.

The volunteer charity operates 365 days a year while visitors are sent home with sandwiches, fruit, biscuits and juice to ensure they are well-fed over the following 24 hours.

They also hand out warm clothes, sleeping bags and duvets for those sleeping rough.

Anyone wishing to donate to the work of Cork Penny Meals can do so here.