The GAA has paid tribute to a respected sports journalist, Matt Fitzpatick from Wattlebridge on the Cavan-Fermanagh border.

"It is with deep regret and sadness that the Ulster GAA has learnt of the death of Matt Fitzpatick," read a statement from Ulster GAA President Aogán Ó Fearghail said:

"Matt was the embodiment of a true GAA volunteer, he was a founder member of Carryduff GAA in 1972 and was recently honoured as a founder member at their annual function.

"A native of Fermanagh Matt moved to Down and spent most of his life there were he became engrossed in Down GAA serving the County in various capacities ranging from administrator to the minor football manager in the early 1970s.

"Through Matt's work as a journalist with both the Irish News and the Down Recorder he raised the profile of all Gaelic Games following club, school and county teams across the country and reporting on their success. The GAA in Ulster is richer for having Matt Fitzpatrick as part of it, he leaves the association in a better place than he found it and made a significant contribution to it, his legacy is a proud one."

Ulster GAA extend our both our sympathy and condolences to the Fitzpatrick family at this difficult time.

It is believed that Mr Fitzpatrick's funeral will take place on Thursday, October 18 in Belfast.

Ar Dheis De go Raidh a Anam