Popular Derry man who passed away in Downings described as 'one in a million'

Tributes have been poured in for the Derry man, Stephen O'Connor, who lost his life having drowned in Downings.

Gardaí were alerted to the discovery of a body on Sunday evening and the body of the deceased was removed from the scene to the local mortuary, where a post-mortem examination will take place in due course.

A file will be prepared for the Coroner’s office. Foul play is not suspected at this time and this incident is being treated as a tragic accident.

Writing on the Facebook page, Derry Craic, brother Paul O'Connor described his Stephen as 'the life and soul of a party', who 'always had time for everyone, including our nephews and nieces, he would have done anything for them'.

Mr O'Connor wrote: "Stephen loved his football going to the odd celtic game when he could as he was celtic through and through, he loved going to the Brandywell to watch Derry City Football Club even going to the away games as well with loads of others, he would go to the Ireland games in Dublin and away in Europe as well. I'm going to miss you so much, Stephen, we had the best times."

Republic of Ireland Supporter's Club: Derry Branch wrote on their social media: "The Club has lost one of the best in the Country ... you really were one in a million Stephen O'Connor (Squirty) Ireland games home and away will never be the same again. RIP Pal."