A FORMER Co Down Gaelic football minor who died following a car crash has been described as "a true gentleman".
Niall Greenan (69) lived with his wife Kathleen in Bristow Park in south Belfast but was originally from Annaclone near Banbridge.
He died after his BMW car left the main Sligo to Bundoran road at around 3pm on Easter Monday.
It is believed that when the single-vehicle accident happened the father-of-two was returning to his holiday home near Grange, Co Sligo after playing golf in Bundoran in neighbouring Co Donegal.
Mr Greenan, who was the sole occupant of the car, was pronounced dead at the scene. A keen all-round sportsman, the Annaclone man played Gaelic football in the 1960s and 70s for his village club and was also picked for Down Minors.
Among his neighbours in Belfast was former West Belfast MP Joe Hendron, who on Tuesday night spoke of his sadness at Mr Greenan's passing.
"Niall was a lovely big man, who was always friendly and smiling," Mr Hendron said.
"We were very sad to hear of his death and can only imagine how his family are feeling at this time."
John Heenan, chairman of the Annaclone GAC, said Mr Greenan was a "colourful character with a personality to match his 6' 6" stature".
"Niall was a gentle giant – a big man with a big heart," he said.
"He never forgot his roots in Annaclone and remained a regular visitor to the club."
Mr Heenan said the deceased was "a great player and a great ambassador for the GAA".
"He was always full of stories and constantly cheerful. We'll miss him dearly."
