Ryan Straney tributes as fundraiser launched after Belfast man's death in Australia

Over £70,000 has been raised in just a couple of days, in memory of a popular young Belfast man.

Ryan Straney died after a tragic collision in Australia on Monday, April 15. The 27-year-old was a proud member of Lámh Dhearg GAC in Hannahstown and a much-loved friend in the tight-knit community.

He has been described as "an absolute gentleman and a true gael" and "a very considerate, caring and pleasant young man".

Read more: Lámh Dhearg pay tribute to Ryan Straney

Read more: GAA pay tribute to Ryan Straney after tragic death in Sydney road accident

On Thursday, a Go Fund Me page was set up by a family-friend, with all proceeds going to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, which alleviates the financial hardship of bereaved families repatriating the bodies of loved ones who have died abroad in sudden or tragic circumstances back to Ireland.

KBRT operates globally and will provide assistance to anyone who needs help with repatriation of loved ones back to the Island of Ireland. KBRT is a volunteer led, donation funded charity.

With an initial target set of £20,000, the fundraiser in memory of Ryan Straney, was sitting at over £19,000 by lunch time. Family, friends and strangers have been donating to the page.

Paying tribute to Ryan, a spokesperson for Lámh Dhearg said: "Ryan was a talented dual player and a life long, loyal and a much valued and dedicated member from a family synomnous with the club. Ryan was an absolute gentleman and a true gael. He was a very popular member and player among his peers and teammates.

"Coaches always found Ryan a pleasure to coach and manage as he was honest, always smiling and willing to learn and improve. Ryan was very intelligent, unassuming and always had time for you. He was a very considerate, caring and pleasant young man.

"Ryan played for the club since his early childhood and served the club with distinction and wore the club jersey with immense pride."

A candlelit vigil will be held on Saturday night, April 20, at 8pm, in memory of Ryan. It will take place in the Heritage Square, with light refreshments available in Lámh Dhearg club.

Please click this link to donate to the Go Fund Me, in memory of Ryan Straney.

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