Legendary folk singer Ronnie Drew has died at the age of 73, after a lengthy illness.
It is understood the founding member of the Dubliners passed away this afternoon at St Vincent’s hospital in Dublin.
Born in Dublin in September 1934, Ronnie Drew founded the group that would later be known as The Dubliners in 1962 and he also went on to pursue a solo career from 1995.
He recorded with many artists including Christy Moore and The Pogues, and in August 2006 his handprints were added outside the Gaiety Theatre in Dublin.
Two years ago, it emerged Ronnie Drew was undergoing treatment for cancer.
As his health declined, a number of famous Irish musicians released a song called “The Ballad of Ronnie Drew” as a tribute to him.
His wife Deirdre died last year. He is survived by his two children and five grandchildren.