GERRY RYAN 1956-2010

HIS voice was instantly recognisable and his views instantly rousing, but it was the immediacy and immensity of the shock that followed Gerry Ryan’s death that spoke volumes for the broadcaster’s extraordinary appeal.

Torrents of tributes flooded in from all walks of life for the 53-year-old RTÉ radio and television star who was found dead of a suspected heart attack at his Dublin apartment yesterday.

President Mary McAleese and Taoiseach Brian Cowen led the accolades, applauding the outspoken presenter’s talent behind a microphone and his larger than life personality on and off air.