The funeral of Paddy Cole took place in his hometown of Castleblayney today.
The funeral mass, which lasted almost two hours, was celebrated by priest to the country music and showband stars, Fr Brian Darcy.
Among those who attended the ceremony, which, was as much a celebration of Paddy Cole's life and music as a fond farewell, were Twink and members of Paddy's band the Superstars, fellow Castleblayney musician, Gerry Black. Michael D Higgins and Taoiseach Micheál Martin were also represented by their Aid De Camps
As one might expect the music took centre stage with a sax player from Dublin performing with others on songs like "Smile" and "Stranger on the off-shore" and Amazing Grace. Eulogies by Fr Brian and Paddy's two sons, Pearse and Paddy, told stories of the Showband era, Paddy's time with the Capitol Showband and The Big 8 with Brendan Bowyer and his stint in Las Vegas.
