Huge shock at death of Darragh

The Irish showjumping community is in mourning this morning following the death of former international rider Paul Darragh.

The 51-year-old died suddenly at his home in Co Meath yesterday following a suspected heart attack.

Darragh represented Ireland 54 times in the Nations Cup and was a member of the famous Irish team that won the Aga Khan Trophy three times in a row between 1977 and 1979.

Speaking about his death this morning, MEP Avril Doyle, the president of the Irish Equestrian Federation, said he would be greatly missed.

"Paul was one of the stars of Irish showjumping over the years and his record stands testimony to him," she said.

"He'll be a great loss and he'll be fondly remembered by all, not just in the equestrian community, but all of those who follow sports in Ireland."