Many tributes have been paid to Darren O'Neill, the Antrim football stalwart and firefighter, who has passed away.

The 41-year-old had just started playing with the Antrim Masters (Over 40s) football team and also coached the Naomh Séamas senior ladies team in Aldergrove. Nicknamed 'Horse', Darren was also a former player and youth coach with St Malachy's GAC in Belfast. Survived by his wife Orianne, his funeral will be held at The Star of the Sea Church in Portstewart tomorrow (Wednesday) at 2pm.

"We are very saddened to learn of our former player and former youth team coach Darren O'Neills untimely death,” St Malachy's GAC said.

"Horse was a vital part of our Championship winning team and also helping with our underage teams. Darren was loved by everyone at the club and will be remembered fondly. We would like to extend our thoughts and prayers to Darren's family circle at this time. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”

The Antrim Masters also paid the following tribute to their team-mate: "Antrim Masters are deeply shocked to hear of the untimely passing of our friend and football colleague Darren (Daz) O'Neill, a young man involved with the fire service in Balllymena and who only recently pulled on the Saffron jersey.

"Balancing the fire service role and playing Masters football was never easy but when he could Daz would get to a game even if it meant taking the motorbike. Deepest sympathy to his wife Orainne and wider family... ar dheis dé go raibh a anam.”

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