Ant: ‘ The world has lost a special man.. ’
Star’s tribute to pal Dec’s brother
ANT Mcpartlin yesterday paid tribute to pal Declan Donnelly’s late brother, saying: “The world has lost a special man.”
The star showed his support for his grieving Saturday Night Takeaway co-host after Dermott Donnelly, a Catholic priest, died suddenly on Friday, aged 55.
Ant, 46, said in an online message: “Father Dermott, you were the kindest, wisest man I knew.
“Rest in peace, my friend. You will never be forgotten. My thoughts, prayers and love are with your wonderful family. The world has lost a special man.”
Dec, 46, had earlier told fans that the family were “all beyond devastated” by the tragedy. “Thank you for your messages of sympathy and support, they are appreciated,” he added.
Dec had rushed from London to the north east to be at his brother’s side after he was rushed to hospital.
Dermott was the priest at St Joseph’s Church in Stanley, near Chester-le-street, Co Durham. In 2015, he officiated at Dec’s wedding to Ali Astall in Newcastle in a star-studded ceremony. Dermott had just celebrated 30 years of service to his parish and community, where he was known for his work with young people and youth ministry.
The Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle described his death as a “great shock”. And parishioners and those who knew and worked with him also paid tribute.
One message said: “This is so hard to comprehend. I spoke to him last week at the primary festival and he was his usual
happy self.” Another simply read: “May you rest in peace”. Reports said Dermott had suffered a short illness.