Tributes have been paid to talented Irvinestown footballer, Ciaran McBride, who has passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family.

In a statement, Irvinestown Wanderers, who Ciaran represented with distinction, said they were “devastated” to hear about the passing of the club legend.

Paying tribute to Ciaran, the club said: “An extremely talented and aggressive centre half, Ciaran – known as ‘Rosco’ – began his playing career for the reserves at a young age in the early 90s under the guidance of firstly John McNulty and then Ted Maye.

“His performances meant he was very quickly drafted in the first team where he was an ever present member until a knee injury cut his career short.”

“When Rosco crossed the white line, you knew what you got – 100 per cent commitment, and he was also the best trainer at the club.”

Ciaran was part of the Junior Cup winning squad in 2001 and then went on to Captain the Junior Cup winning side of 2004.

“His subsequent loss through injury in 2006 and departure from the town to Manchester left a massive void which the club struggled to recover from.

“The McBride and Goan families have contributed massively to the club over the last 25 years.

“A larger than life character who was a joy to spend time with, Rosco will be missed by everyone who knew him.

“He was always totally committed in everything he did, and was a wonderful son, brother, cousin, friend and ultimately a devoted husband to his wife, Hayley, and his daughter, Tess.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to Hayley and Tess, Eileen and Gerry, the entire McBride family, as well as the Maguire and Goan families.”

Irvinestown GAA also expressed their sadness at the passing of former player, Ciaran.

“We offer our sympathy to his wife, Hayley, and daughter, Tess, and also his father and long-term club member, Gerry, mother Eileen, brothers Martin and Gerard, and sisters Elaine and Joanne. May he rest in peace.”

Ciaran’s funeral takes place today, Thursday, April 14 at 10.15am, arriving at the Sacred Heart Church, Irvinestown for 11am funeral service, followed by interment in the adjoining cemetery.

He was a beloved husband to Hayley, much-loved father of Tess, loving son of Gerry and Eileen, brother of Martin (Edel), Elaine (Darragh), Joanne (Stephen) and Gerard, cherished son-in-law of Kevin and Helen, and a much-loved brother-in-law of Aaron.