'Larger than life and with a booming voice on our TV screens'

Martin and Harris lead the hundreds of voices paying respects to 'warm & vibrant' star

- BY ABBIE BRAY

TAOISEACH Micheal Martin and Tanaiste Simon Harris have led the tributes to celebrity architect Hugh Wallace, who has died suddenly at the age of 68.

Micheal Martin said he was "deeply saddened at the passing of Hugh Wallace, whose advocacy for good architecture, coupled with his wonderful communication skills, performed a wonderful public service".

"Sincere condolences to his husband Martin, family and friends," he added.

Tanaiste Simon Harris spoke about his admiration for the beloved Home of the Year judge after his sudden death on Sunday night.

"I'm really saddened to hear of the passing of Hugh Wallace," said Mr Harris.

"He was a character larger than life with a booming voice on our television screens and radio stations who made such an important contribution to Irish life by providing entertaining programmes, but also in teaching us the importance of restoration and architecture.

PEACE

"It seems even odd talking about him with the phrase 'was' because he was a man so full of life, so full of vitality and a man who made a really important contribution.