Funeral of 2010’s first road death victim
Noel Hayes, a 26-year-old mechanic, who was single, died from injuries he received after his car skidded and hit a ditch at around 3am on New Year’s morning, a short distance form his home at Clounties, Ballyhahill.
He had just dropped off a number of friends who he had collected from a New Year’s Eve celebration in Newcastle West.
His brother, the well known flat jockey, Chris Hayes, has flown home from India where he has been based for the winter racing season.
The dead man had been working for a car company in Limerick and had planned to open up his own car repair business.
He lived at home with his parents PJ and Mary.
One of his brothers, Paddy is a horse trainer, also based in Ballyhahill.
Family friend and neighbour, Mattie Woods, said: “The whole community is shattered. There is an awful gloom over the place... He was only a half mile from home when it happened. He was fine person and very hard working.”
Mr Hayes, who was found badly injured in his car some hours after the accident, was placed on a life support machine at the Mid-Western Regional Hospital.
He was pronounced dead at the hospital on Saturday.
Funeral arrangements were deferred to enable his brother Chris to travel home from India.
He is based on the Curragh where he rides for trainer, Kevin Prendergast.
Burial will take place today after 12 o’clock Mass at St Senan’s parish church in Shanagolden.
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