Irish singer and saxophonist Paddy Cole has died at the age of 85.
The musician, who celebrated his eighth birthday on December 17, was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2022. He was receiving palliative care at the time of his death.
Paddy first appeared on stage at 12 and began his career in the 1960s with the Capitol Showband.
His father, a postman who supplemented his income by playing in dance bands, introduced him to show business.
The singer, who was from Co. Monaghan, moved to Las Vegas in the early 1970s, where he joined The Big Eight Showband, a group of Irish musicians.
He also owned a restaurant in his home town of Castleblayney with his wife Helen, although he was living in Dublin at the time of his death.
Irish singer and saxophonist Paddy Cole dies at 85

The musician, who celebrated his eighth birthday on December 17, was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2022
Paddy previously admitted he “never thought” he would live to be 85 after being diagnosed with incurable cancer.
talking to Confirm attendanceHe said: “My health is up and down, I have some good days and some bad days, but I’m maintaining the best I can.”
“I keep in touch with the hospice people all the time and they keep me on painkillers and all that kind of stuff, so moving on is the only way I can say it.”
His passing was confirmed by his son Pat in a statement that read: “The music world mourns the loss of the legendary Paddy Cole, a beloved artist who brought joy to thousands with his vibrant personality and infectious music.
‘From the Capitol Showband to his own Superstars, Paddy Cole’s saxophone, clarinet and voice filled ballrooms and concert stages with his signature blend of jazz, Dixieland and showband sounds.
‘His music transcended generations, creating memories that will always be cherished.
‘On behalf of his family, we express our deepest gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time.
‘Paddy’s legacy will live on through the music he created and the joy he shared with the world. Rest in peace, Paddy Cole.

He was receiving palliative care at the time of his death. Paddy first appeared on stage at 12 and began his career in the 1960s with the Capitol Showband.

The singer, who was from Co. Monaghan, moved to Las Vegas in the early 1970s, where he joined The Big Eight Showband, a group of Irish musicians.
The President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins, paid tribute to Paddy, saying:
The loss of Paddy Cole is the loss of one of the founding icons of the great era of Irish showbands.
‘From the Capitol Showband to the great brass sound, what Paddy Cole did for music and jazz will be remembered from generation to generation.
‘The importance of the show band era is perhaps one of the under-recognised aspects of Irish music history.
‘There are places that became famous because of the artists they produced. Castleblayney, always known as ‘Blayney’, is one of those places to produce Paddy.
‘Paddy Cole’s music was first class, with jazz of international quality, and Sabina and I knew and admired him as a friend.
“I can send our condolences to Paddy’s wife Helen, his children Pat, Pearse and Karen, and all his family, fellow musicians and many friends.”