Community shocked after sudden passing of Tallaght Person of the Year Philip Preston

THE community of Tallaght is today in mourning over the sudden loss of Tallaght Person of the Year and Tallaght Rugby Club’s youth development officer, Philip Preston.

A proud Tallaght man and ambassador, Philip, who grew up in Jobstown, passed away suddenly last night – a massive loss that has today sparked an outpouring of grief across the community.

An energetic supporter of Tallaght and its people, especially the younger generation, Philip’s enthusiasm for his community was admirable and infectious – with the Tallaght man possessing a natural ability to encourage, inspire and unite.

In a Facebook post earlier today, Tallaght Rugby Club said it was “devastated” to announce the sudden death of Philip.

The club also wrote: “The Club would like to pass our heartfelt sympathies to Aoife, Kayleigh, his family and friends.

“Philip was a man mountain with a heart of solid gold, his contribution to our club will never be matched on or off the field.

“His commitment to his community was recognised by everyone in Tallaght and he was rightly appointed Tallaght person of the year last year.”

Everyone here at The Echo Newspaper would like to extend their sympathies to Philip’s family and friends at this sad time.