The Derry music world was last night mourning the former Big Electric Ceili Band frontman Charlie Herron, who died in the Donegal Hospice on Tuesday.
Mr Herron, who was in his 50s, had also been a founder member of Cast of Thousands, with Dave Harvey in the 1980s.
He was one of the finest lead guitarists in the city in the 1980s and 1980s, and was in huge demand as both a performer and session player.
He had been a regular (and popular) performer on the Donegal/Inishowen circuit with his brother Mickey for the past two decades.
His former bandmate Dave Harvey posted a Horslips track on Facebook in his memory, commenting:"For Charlie Herron My old friend . You are still playing in heaven ! xx RIP.
Musician Paul McCartney, of Bam Bam and The Calling, who was a friend of Mr Herron, described news of his death as "awful".
He commented: "When someone leaves us, you quite commonly hear that he or she would want nobody to be sad. Anyone that knew Charlie Herron, would know that this would definitely be the case, as this gentle giant specialized in the business of happiness, smiling and fun.
"Many thousands of people all over the place danced and sang when he played his guitar on a stage. Thoughts with the Herron family and the Derry and Donegal music community at this time.
"Raise a glass to the Big Guy, and think of him this evening, and play 'Dearg Doom' by The Horslips in honour of him also."
In his youth, Mr Herron had been an athlete, playing soccer. He was also the St Columb's College high jump record-holder for many years.
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