RIP: Country music star Michael English cancels shows due to sudden and tragic death of nephew

Country music singer Michael English has shared the tragic news that his nephew and godson Dara Kissane has passed away at just 19-years-old.

Sharing the news on his social media, English wrote: "I’m very sorry to tell you all that my beloved nephew and godson Dara has died at the tender age of 19 after been sick for just a few days. Dara was our pride and joy and we loved him dearly.

"I hope everyone will understand that I simply cannot fulfil my shows for the rest of the week. We are devastated beyond words but the kindness of neighbours and friends are helping us to get through these very difficult days. Please say a prayer for Dara’s Mam and Dad, John and Olivia, and for his sister Kayla. May Dara rest in the eternal peace he so richly deserves."

Young Dara from Kilkea, County Kildare passed away suddenly on Tuesday, 18 March at Naas General Hospital surrounded by his family.

Tributes have poured in following the Kildare man's untimely death, with hundreds of people paying their respects to the "wonderful young man" Dara was.

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Radio Castledermot led the tributes on social media, saying: "The Radio Castledermot family were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Dara Kissane yesterday morning. The son of Olivia and our beloved Fuzzy, Dara has been a part of the Radio Castledermot family since we set things up five years ago.

"He captured the hearts of our viewers when he co-presented on many shows with Leo and his Dad and brought his own style and grace to Radio Castledermot. The memory of Dara will live on in our hearts forever and we send our deepest condolences to Fuzzy, Olivia, Kayla and Dara's extended circle of family and friends."

On his RIP.ie notice, one person shared: "Dara was such a wonderful young man, sweet, funny, talented and friendly."

Another wrote: "We will always remember Dara's kind smile, gentle nature and the memories made during the school days in Kilkea."

One of Dara's teachers said: "Dara’s spirit and talent will be sorely missed, and my heart goes out to all who knew him."

Dara will be reposing at his home on Friday, 21 March from 2pm and concluding with prayers at 8pm. Removal will take place on Saturday, 22 March at 10.30 for Requiem Mass at 11am in the Church of the Assumption in Castledermot. Burial will take place afterwards in Moone Cemetery.