The death of country music legend and farmer Big Tom McBride has evoked a huge outpouring of sadness and regret all over Ireland and further afield.

Big Tom, from Oram near Castleblayney, was the undisputed king of country here in Ireland and remained the foremost country attraction for over five decades. Big Tom and The Mainliners had their first chart success with Gentle Mother back in 1966. Several other hits were to follow down through the years.

The Monaghan farmer was an iconic figure and truly was a national treasure, loved and respected in every parish in the country.

The passing of his beloved wife Rose (nee King) at the end of January, impacted greatly on Tom. He died after a short illness in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda on Tuesday morning.

Tom is survived by his sons Thomas and Dermot, daughters Aisling and Siobhan, the family circle, relatives, neighbours and a vast army of followers who were ever loyal to him down through the years.