Former Kilkenny hurler Lester Ryan has died following a road traffic accident on Saturday.
The 61-year-old passed away after his bike was struck by a tractor close to his home in Gowran.
The incident happened around 3.30pm on Saturday.
His body was taken to St Luke’s General Hospital, Kilkenny. It will be later transferred to University Hospital Waterford for a postmortem.
Ryan won two All-Ireland minor medals, three Leinster senior titles and played in two All-Ireland senior finals as a player.
He was uncle of the 2014 Kilkenny All-Ireland winning captain and namesake, who retired from inter-county hurling two years ago.
Tributes have been pouring in for the former player.
Kilkeeny GAA said: "All associated with Kilkenny GAA were deeply saddened to hear of the tragic passing of Lester Ryan (Senior)", Kilkenny GAA said on Twitter.
"As a player and as a Coach he left his mark on the GAA community both in Kilkenny and beyond. We extend our sympathies to his Wife and family.
"Ar deis Dé go raibh a anam."
Kilkenny Camogie commented: "Kilkenny Camogie was deeply saddened to hear that Lester Ryan had died today after an accident.
"Lester was a gentleman and he worked with a number of officers during the recent hosting of the National Féile in Kilkenny.
"He was also a GAA referee having joined the ranks a number of years ago.
"A great GAA man he played with Clara alongside his brothers Johnny (RIP) and Harry and also played with Kilkenny winning two Minor All Ireland Medals and three Senior Leinster titles.
"He was a member of the Leinster Council where he worked for a number of years as a Coaching Officer he had retired a number of years ago.
"He was also heavily involved with the Leinster Poc Fada committee where people would see him in attendance in Howth for the Provincial Finals.
"We extend our deepest sympathies to his wife Christine, sons Joseph & Conor and his daughters Niamh & Eimear.
"Ar a dheis dé go raibh a ainm dilís."
