HUNDREDS of mourners gathered in Kilkenny yesterday to attend the funeral of the late Ollie Walsh, the county's former hurling goalkeeping legend and manager.
A large congregation gathered at St Mary's Cathedral from early morning to attend the requiem Mass for the 58 year old who died unexpectedly at his home on Saturday night.
The chief celebrant was Father Tom O'Toole, a nephew of the deceased and a curate in Johnstown, Co Kilkenny.
The Taoiseach, Mr Bruton, was represented by his aide de camp, Capt Maurice McQuillan. The Minister for Sport, Mr Allen, attended along with local TDs, Mr Seamus Pattison, Mr Liam Aylward and Mr Phil Hogan.
The GAA president, Mr Jack Boothman, attended, as did former office holders, Mr Pat Fanning, Mr Paddy Buggy and Mr Seamus O Riain The Bord Na Gaeilge chairman, Mr Michael O Muircheartaigh, also attended.
Mr Walsh was later laid to rest in St Kieran's Cemetery. He is survived by his wife Olive, sons Michael, Oliver and Billy, and daughter Anne.