Nicky Byrne has paid a heartfelt tribute to his late dad, on the 10th anniversary of his passing.
Nicky Snr passed away suddenly in 2009 following a heart attack, and a decade on, the Westlife star is reminiscing on the good times they spent together.
Sharing some lovely pictures of the pair, Nicky began, “Sometimes life can blindside you when you’re least expecting it, derailing everything you ever knew.
“This was the case at this time, on this day, ten years ago when we lost a very special suddenly to a heart attack.”
He continued, “A dad like no other. A soulmate to my mam, a friend, a neighbour, a brother, a work colleague and so much more.
“With my mam’s help, dad taught me many, many things. How to walk, run, cycle, kick a ball, score a goal, catch a ball, pass a ball, sing (debatable), draw, drive, paint, fight when necessary, stand up for myself when required, also to fish, pick up spiders…
“When I was 18 he taught me to drink a pint (never spirits) – in fact, probably the only thing he couldn’t help me with was my horrible maths homework.
“He taught me to live, love and respect others and most of all, showed me how me how to be a man, a gentleman.”
Nicky went on to say, “We miss him every day. He had a smile that could light up anyones day. Patience to be envied, and a hug that made the darkest moments disappear.
“10 years on, a little easier yes, but never the same without you. Thanks dad. Love from all of us.”
Earlier this month, Nicky and his Westlife bandmates Shane Filan, Kian Egan and Markus Feehily, released a new single, My Blood, which they dedicated to their own children.
It’s a very special track for the band, who have ten children between them.