Tyrone hurler Damian Casey has sadly passed away suddenly in Spain.

One of the most prolific forwards at inter-county level, Casey scored 0-14 in Tyrone's Nickey Rackard Cup final win over Roscommon at Croke Park last month.

A Tyrone GAA statement said: "Heartbreak and grief can come in many forms but are especially cruel when brought about by the sudden death of someone young, talented, outgoing and in the prime of life.

"Accordingly, Gaelic Tyrone is totally shaken by the news of the tragic death of Damian Casey, a supreme hurler just now at the peak of his powers.

"Damian Casey was a special gift to Tyrone and to hurling. We were the richer for his presence and are the poorer for his passing."

Michael Kerr, Tyrone GAA chairperson, paid tribute to the highly regarded Casey, 29, who made a significant impact in hurling.

"This breaking news is beyond belief,” Kerr says.

"Someone who brought honour, delight and simple, straightforward gladness to our whole County, and far beyond, is gone and it’s so hard to take in.

"“There are very difficult days ahead for Sean, Susan, Louise and Catherine, for Damian’s wider family circle and many friends and associates, for his team-mates and for the Gaels of Dungannon and Tyrone.

“Our deepest sympathy goes to them, and our focus must now be on providing the support and comfort that will be so badly needed."