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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Jada Jones

Enya pays tribute to brother in rare public statement after tragic death

Singer Enya has spoken out in a rare public statement to offer tribute to her late brother who sadly passed away yesterday.

Leon Brennan, who lived in Dublin, worked for 35 years behind the scenes of the Clannad band that sister Moya was a part of.

He was the band's production and tour manager, and also looked after their merchandise.

According to the Donegal Daily, the family's pub Leo's Tavern has been closed in a mark of respect.

Taking to Instagram to ask for privacy, Irish performer Enya, who is best known for her hit Orinoco Flow, said that he was her "dearest and closest friend".

She shared a sombre picture with her 108k followers, which she captioned: " It is with a deep and terrible sadness that I must announce the death of my beloved brother, Leon.

"Not only was he my brother, but he was my dearest and closest friend. My love for him will remain forever in my heart.

"I would ask for privacy at this time, not only for me, but for all my family."

She signed off the caption with her name, with fans quickly pouring forward tributes towards her late loved one.

One fan said: "Condolences, Enya. Sending a hug to you and all your family. Rest in peace, Leon."

Enya described her brother as her closest friend (PEDRO ARMESTRE/AFP/Getty Images)
Enya has asked for privacy as her family mourns (Phil McCarten/CBS via Getty Images)

Another wrote: "I’m so terribly sorry, Enya! My sister was my dearest and closest friend as well! I very much understand! My love and heart are with you! His spirit is close beside you for comfort! Love you!!"

It is not just Enya who has shared a tribute to Leon, with her sister Moya also taking to Instagram to express her heartbreak.

Sharing a picture of her brother smiling, she captioned the snap: "I'm heartbroken, my dear brother Leon passed away this morning surrounded by family.

"I know he touched the lives of many people around the world, and he will be missed so very much [heart]".

Tributes have flooded in on Instagram and Twitter for the late Leon.

Noel Duggan, Ciaran Brennan, Moya Brennan, Padraig Duggan and Paul Brennan made up Irish group Clannad (Getty)

On Twitter followers shared their own memories with Leon as they offered condolences to the family.

One said: "I am so sorry to hear this Enya. I met him several times over the years when I was living in Ireland and then on subsequent visits back.

"The last time was in 2018 at Leo’s. He was so kind, warm and hospitable! Wishing you and your family peace and understanding at this time."

A second penned: "I can feel your pain, and I can only say that from this physical distance I send you a big hug and I hope that time will give you a little comfort for such a sensitive loss. My heartfelt condolences."

While a third wrote: "Met Leon in San Francisco in the 90s. Such sad news. Condolences".

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