The funeral has taken place of the last member of the original Dubliners line-up, Barney McKenna, who inspired Irish music fans across the globe.
In moving scenes at St. Patrick's Church in Trim, County Meath, mourners heard the famous Dubliners hit "Raglan Road" as the banjo player was laid to rest.
McKenna, who passed away at his home in Dublin last week aged 72, was one of the world's most respected traditional Irish musicians, having helped found the Dubliners with singer Ronnie Drew, Luke Kelly and Ciaran Bourke in 1962.
Fondly nicknamed "Banjo Barney," the musician was said to have been having a "quiet cup of tea" when he died at his breakfast table last Thursday. He was the last of the original Dubliners line-up, with famously gravel-voiced singer Ronnie Drew having died in 2008.
Hundreds of mourners packed into the small church for the funeral service on Monday. They included many famous faces alongside McKenna's family and friends.
President Michael D. Higgins joined Sinn Féin leader Gerry Adams, and members of the Irish music community, including Declan O'Rourke, Phil Coulter and Dónal Lunny. Floral tributes were also offered, including one from U2. The service featured music including traditional reels, and a capella singing from Noel O'Grady and Sean Cannon.
Meanwhile, at the graveside, a lone piper played "Raglan Road," the famous Dubliners version of the poem of the same name written by Patrick Kavanagh.
Friend John Sheahan explained how Barney had strong family ties with the Meath town, despite being known the world over as a true Dubliner, and added that he was at last reunited with fellow bandmates who have since passed on.
"He loved spending time here. I'd say he was more of a Meath man than a Dubliner," he said.
"He was my brother, my friend, my fellow troubadour. Life will be poorer for his passing and I will miss him greatly. May his gentle soul find a new and lasting harmony in the company of Bob (Lynch), Luke, Ciaran and Ronnie," said Sheahan.
