It is with very deep sadness that we record the passing of one of Ireland's foremost motoring writers, Ferdia O'Dowd.
A colleague and friend for many years to his fellow members of the Irish Motoring Writers Association and to the much wider community of agricultural journalism, he died in the early hours of this morning.
Formerly a farmer himself, he worked for many years with the Farmers Journal, and in his recent years he was the motoring editor of the Sunday Business Post.
He will be missed by his family, and his very many friends around the world, for his knowledge, generosity of spirit, wit and ability to pick a very fine wine. A global traveller, he also had an extensive appreciation of good cuisine in many countries, and a great knowledge of local customs and culture.
No funeral arrangements have yet been announced.
May he rest in peace.