Jack Lynch brought honour to his city - first on the playing-field and later on the political stage, where he achieved the highest office in the land. His native Blackpool celebrated, and when he went on to become Taoiseach the north Cork suburb took a special pride in its favourite son.
Last night it was to the North Cathedral in Blackpool that the remains of Jack Lynch, statesman and sporting hero, were brought. Thousands lined the route as the Air Corps aircraft bearing his body arrived at Cork Airport.
On the ramp, a Garda and Army escort received the body and then escorted the former Taoiseach through the streets of his beloved city. The hearse drove through the tunnel under the Lee bearing his name and then along the city quays to the cathedral, where a solemn Requiem Mass will be celebrated today.
The Bishop of Cork, Dr John Buckley, paid tribute: "I welcome you all to the cathedral this evening. I know that you will join with me in offering our sincere sympathy to Mairin, to the Lynch family, his nephews and nieces, cousins and friends, on this sad occasion. Our hearts go out to you, Mairin.
"When the city heard on Wednesday morning that Jack had left us, there was a palpable and universal outpouring of grief and sadness. Jack's humanity has left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him and his passing diminishes us all. He loved life and lived it intensely."
Members of the Cabinet, the Tanaiste, Ms Harney, the Taoiseach, Mr Ahern, and one of Jack Lynch's great friends in politics, the former PD leader, Mr Des O'Malley, attended the removal. Mr O'Malley will deliver the oration today at the graveside when Mr Lynch's body is brought to St Finbarr's cemetery on the south side of Cork city. A former Taoiseach, Mr Charles Haughey, is also expected to attend.