Derry City pay tribute to club President John Hume

Mr Hume was a major supporter of his home town club and famously brought Spanish and European giants Barcelona to the Brandywell in 2003, with likes Ronaldinho, Marc Overmars, Carles Puyol and Andrés Iniesta all involved in the friendly.

Chairman Philip O'Doherty and everyone at the Brandywell club offered their deepest sympathies to Mr. Hume's wife Pat and his family.

"Derry City FC is deeply saddened this morning to learn of the death of club President, John Hume.

"As well as being an iconic figure on the political stage, John was a wonderful ambassador for the city and the club. He has been President for the past 21 years and testimony to his global popularity was instrumental in bringing a star-studded Barcelona side to Derry in 2003.

"He was a genuine supporter too and attended as many games as he could. John travelled to all the club's cup finals during his tenure and as a club and a city, we were lucky to have him.

"Our deepest sympathies go out to John's wife, Pat, and the entire family circle at this very difficult time.

"May his gentle soul Rest In Peace. Derry City FC."

The SSE Airtricity League have also confirmed that there will be a minutes silence observed tonight before the St Patrick's Athletic game against Derry, as a mark of respect to Mr Hume.