Local book of condolences for Gay Byrne

As the funeral of legendary broadcaster Gay Byrne takes place today (Friday), locals in Athlone and across the county are being invited to sign books of condolences organised by Westmeath County Council.

Books of condolences are open to members of the public to express their sympathies until 5pm this evening in the Civic Centre, Church Street, Athlone and Áras an Chontae, Mount Street, Mullingar.

The cathaoirleach and members of Westmeath County Council have expressed their deepest sympathies to the family of Gay Byrne.

The funeral, which takes place at St Mary's Pro Cathedral, Dublin at 12pm today, is being broadcast live on RTÉ One from 11.30am. It will be hosted by Bryan Dobson, with commentary by John Bowman and Mary Kennedy.

Warm tributes have been paid all week to the much-loved broadcaster, who died on Monday at the age of 85 following an illness.