Heartbreaking tributes are being paid to a pedestrian who died in a collision in Cork on Thursday night.
He has been named locally as Ger Jones, a married father-of-two and well-known referee originally from Wexford.
Mr Jones, aged in his mid-60s, was fatally injured when he was struck by a car on the N25 near to the junction of the Old Youghal Road.
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In a touching tribute, the Wexford and District Schoolboys league - which he officiated for - said: "The Wexford Schoolboys League was saddened to learn of the passing of Ger Jones who had refereed our games for many years.
"Sincere sympathy is extended to Ger’s wife Caroline, daughters Leah and Hailey and extended family at this very sad time."
North End United Sky Blues said: "From Everyone at the Club, we extend sympathy to Caroline, Leah and Hailey Jones on the sad passing of their beloved Ger. We also send our thoughts to the entire Jones family, who have been part of our Club since day one.
"Ger will be missed by us all here in North End. Always one to help when it was needed, one of the old crew, part of the Sky Blue Family for over 50 years. Taken far too soon. May his gentle soul Rest in Peace."
Wexford FC held a minute's silence observed before kickoff in their match on Friday in honour of Mr Jones.
In a social media post, his daughter Leah described her late father has "my first love". She said he was a great father and grandfather.
"Dad, I don’t know how we’re gonna find the strength to get through this without you.
"We’ll take over your man talks on a Friday with the boys, I promise," she said.
His other daughter Hailey also posted: “RIP Dad. Life is never going to be the same.”
Funeral details are expected to be announced on Monday.
Meanwhile, gardai have launched an appeal for witnesses to the collision to contact them.
A spokesperson said: "Gardai are investigating a fatal road traffic incident that occurred on Thursday, 2nd March 2023 on the N25 in Midleton, Co.Cork. The collision occurred at approximately 9.15pm on the N25 near to the junction of the Old Youghal Road.
"A male pedestrian, a man in his 60s, received fatal injuries during the incident.
"Gardai are appealing to anyone with information to come forward to them. In particular, any drivers who were on the N25 between the Lakeview Roundabout and the junction at the Old Youghal Road between 9pm – 9.20pm and who may have witnessed the incident or who may have video footage (including dash-cam) is asked to contact gardai."
Gardai can be contacted at Midleton Garda Station on 024 462 1550, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.
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