Book of condolences opened for Dolan today

A book of condolences will be opened in Joe Dolan's home town of Mullingar today.

Major figures from the world of entertainment are expected to gather for the funeral service of the legendary singer whose career spanned 45 years.

The funeral service will take place at 11am on Saturday at the Cathedral of Christ the King before the entertainer is laid to rest at Walshetown Cemetery.

County Council chairman Mick Dollard will be the first person to sign the book of condolences this morning.

He says Joe was loved nationally because of his music, but on a local level as an entertainer who never forgot his roots.

"A lot of people would have followed Joe down through the years and they're actually crying talking to me on the when they're talking about Joe," he said.

"He was never afraid to express his love of Mullingar. The people in Mullingar will remember him for that, and obviously his music as well."