Tribute paid to veteran columnist

Owen Kelly was an "institution", said Irish News editor Noel Doran

The veteran writer and broadcaster Owen Kelly has died.

Mr Kelly, who was originally from south Derry and lived in west Belfast, died on Sunday. He wrote a weekly column in the Irish News for more than 25 years.

He was described as an "institution" and a "very wise man" by Irish News editor Noel Doran.

"There was something very simple, but very sincere, in his columns. They gave people a lift even during the very difficult periods," said Mr Doran.

Mr Kelly, who wrote a number of books, was described by the Times Educational Supplement as having "an original mind with a refreshing line in humorous understatement".