The Kilmaine GAA club in Mayo has been stunned by the tragic death of star footballer Padraig O'Dea.

The 26-year-old died in London in the early hours of yesterday morning as a result of injuries sustained when he fell from the back of a moving taxi.

The young engineer, who had been in London for a year, where he togged out for Kingdom Kerry Gaels, sustained serious head injuries at about 1am on Monday after falling from the taxi in Harrow, northwest London.

News of the Mayo man's death has caused deep shock in his native Kilmaine, where he was regarded as one of the local GAA club's best players. The club released a statement: "Kilmaine GAA Club wishes to express its profound sadness and shock at the untimely passing of club player Padraig O'Dea, late of Cloonamealtogue, Kilmaine, Co.Mayo on Sunday 28th September in London. Padraig made an outstanding contribution to Kilmaine GAA Club during his life and gave great commitment as a footballer. Above all, Padraig was our friend and his untimely passing has brought great sorrow and grief amongst the Kilmaine GAA Club community. Padraig had a love of Gaa and was a very happy character who people loved to be around.

"To his parents Gerry and Teresa, his brother Gearoid, club supporters and friends, and his extended family and many friends, we extend our deepest sympathy and condolences. Please remember them all in your prayers.

Details of Padraig's funeral arrangements will be published once they become available. Padraig O'Dea - "The heart of a lion on the field and a gentleman of it". Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dilis."

Kingdom Kerry Gaels also paid tribute to Padraig: "Padraig was held in high regard by everyone in the club; one of life's true gentlemen and characters he was a very dedicated member of the senior team panel for the past couple of years, winning the Senior Championship, Senior League and Conway Cup with us in 2013, which was a source of huge pride to him.

"To Padraig's Mum and Dad Gerry and Teresa, his brother Gearoid and his wider circle of family and friends, we extend our deepest sympathy at this sad time. Please remember them all in your prayers. Rest in Peace Padraig, from all your friends at KKG, you will be missed but always remembered. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis."

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