Downton Abbey star Michelle Dockery's tribute to ‘hero’ fiancé

Downton Abbey star Michelle Dockery paid tribute to her “hero” fiancé John Dineen yesterday at his requiem mass — a day after her birthday and a day before what would have been his birthday.

The Golden Globe-nominated actress, who plays Lady Mary Crawley in the popular ITV show, said Mr Dineen was a tower of strength during the 15 months in which he was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. She described the native of Ballinora, Co Cork as a man of “great depth and integrity.”

“Whether in his work or his personal life John was extremely loyal,” she said. “It was clear that when John was in your corner he was there. I was honoured to know John. To love him and be loved by him. He was my friend, my king, my hero, my everything. We celebrate him, we honour him, and we will miss him.”