Wednesday December 22 2010
A CHRISTMAS party night ended in tragedy after a popular publican fell down the stairs of his home to his death.
Ian Noone, of the Antique Tavern in Enniscorthy, Co Wexford, was out celebrating his staff Christmas social on Monday night. Tragically, Mr Noone was killed when he tumbled down the staircase after returning home from town.
It is believed he may have been going down the stairs to let his dog outside when he fell in the home he shared with his long-term French girlfriend, Delphine Riche.
His work colleagues were shocked at the sudden death of the 42-year-old.
A black ribbon hung outside the Antique Tavern and the pub closed as a mark of respect yesterday.
His co-worker Karl Forrester said Ian was an "excellent employer" who was "very kind" and a "very good" friend.
"Everyone in town is devastated and absolutely shocked," he said.
Enniscorthy councillor Paddy Kavanagh saw Mr Noone out with his staff on Monday night in the Castle Bar in the town. "He was there with all his staff and everyone looked like they were having a great time."
Local businessman Jimmy Gahan said Mr Noone was an "absolute gentleman".
"He was highly popular and the community is in shock with the circumstances being so tragic."
President of the Enniscorthy rugby club, Charlie Kavanagh, described Mr Noone as a "very jovial" man. He said he ran the bar in the rugby club and in the local golf club for some time and "couldn't do enough" for people.
Mr Noone is survived by his parents, Joe and Eileen, and brother Karl.
Removal takes place today from Browne's funeral home in Enniscorthy at 5.30pm to arrive at the Star of the Sea church in Riverchapel at 6.30pm. Funeral Mass takes place at 11am tomorrow and burial will follow in the local cemetery.
- Eimear Ni Bhraonain
Ian was in great form when I was in the Antique for Saturday's rugby matches and like many others I was absolutely stunned by the news of his untimely death. I offer my deepest sympathy to Ian's family, friends and all the staff at the Antique. A light has gone out in the social and sporting life of Enniscorthy -Ní fheicfimid a leithéid ann arís.
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