Tributes have been paid to a 'one of a kind' teenager following his sudden death.
Friends of Niall Laverty, from Saul, just outside of Downpatrick , have shared their heartbreak at the news of his death this morning.
The 19-year-old, a keen sportsman, was a dedicated member of Saul and Ballygalget GAC and Ballynagross FC.
He was a past pupil of St Patrick's Grammar School and had enrolled in Ulster University this month to study a degree in Sports Studies.
He also played as Vice-Captain of his Downpatrick school team and helped their victory in March 2018 as they lifted the MacLarnon Cup.
A spokesperson for the school said that he will be 'deeply missed'.
He said: "Niall made an immediate impact on the Red High family when he walked through the gates in September 2012. Staff and students got to know a bubbly, funny, and kind young man with a great love of sport, place, family and friends.
"Niall progressed through his time in the Red High showing great sporting ability. He was captain of many teams throughout the school and was a true inspiration to his teammates. A team player in every sense, he was selfless in his displays and always helped wherever he could.
"This culminated in his performances last year on our MacLarnon winning squad. Niall put the team first and did any job asked of him. His coaches had no hesitation in awarding him player of the year on a team of outstanding players.
"Niall was an outstanding young man, thoughtful, caring, lovable and was a close friend to many of our former and current pupils."
Ballygalget GAC paid tributes to the young man this afternoon.
Their Facebook post read: "Really tragic news this morning that young Niall Laverty from Saul has sadly passed away.
"Niall’s second club was Ballygalget and he will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and Saul GAC at this very difficult time. Rest in peace young Gael. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam."
A friend of the Co Down man wrote: "Rest easy angel. I am so thankful for the laughs and many years I had you as my pal. You are one of a kind."
Another described him as 'an absolute gent'.
A spokesperson for Ballynagross FC said that Niall was a ‘warm, charming and outgoing young man’.
He said: “As a footballer Niall was exceptional, as a person he was a superstar. Niall touched the lives of those lucky enough to have met him.
“On behalf of everyone at Ballynagross FC we send our heartfelt condolences to Niall’s parents, Peter and Margaret, his sisters Colleen and Grainne, his brother Sean and all his family and friends.
“Rest in Peace Niall, we will miss you dearly and remember you always with great affection.”
And Charles Rourke and Sons Funeral Directors reported: "Laverty, 19th September 2019, Niall suddenly, dearly loved son of Peter and Margaret, and much loved brother of Colleen, Sean and Grainne, brother-in-law of Daryl, Caoilfionn and Niall, uncle of Milo, grandson of Kate and a dear nephew and cousin.
"May he rest in peace. Funeral from his home 81 St. Patrick’s Road, Raholp on Sunday 22nd September at 12.15pm, to St. Patrick’s Church, Saul for Requiem Mass at 1.00pm. Interment afterwards in the adjoining cemetery. Sacred Heart of Jesus have mercy on his soul.
"Family flowers only please. Donations may be made in lieu if desired to P.I.P.S. c/o Charles Rourke and Sons, Funeral Directors, 51 Church Street, Downpatrick, BT30 6EH."
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