END OF AN ERA

Henry loses his brave battle with cancer

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SLANE Castle owner Lord Henry Mount Charles was hailed as 'the man who brought rock 'n' roll to Ireland' as his family announced he has lost his battle with cancer.

The owner of the iconic estate, where he hosted some of Ireland's most memorable gigs, passed away peacefully on Wednesday aged 74.

In a statement, his family said: "Lord Henry leaves behind an extraordinary legacy as a passionate steward of Ireland's heritage, dedicating his life to preserving Slane Castle and transforming it into a beacon of culture, music, and community.

"His visionary leadership and generosity touched countless lives, while his warmth, humour, and resilience endeared him to friends, colleagues, and admirers across generations.

"Lord Henry's light will continue to shine through the lives he enriched and the enduring contributions he made to Ireland's cultural landscape. He will be profoundly missed, but never forgotten."

President Michael D Higgins said he was "saddened" to learn of Lord Henry's passing, and praised his vision in transforming Slane Castle into one of Ireland's most iconic music venues.

UNIQUE

He added: "Lord Henry's contribution was quite unique and a very important turning point in live music in Ireland when he decided to begin using the natural amphitheatre at Slane Castle as a venue at which public performances could be held by some of the most contemporary makers of music.

"I have been saddened over recent years to hear of his struggles with cancer, about which he spoke personally and helpfully of his experiences."