President Mary McAleese was among those who last night paid tribute to RTÉ's Larry Gogan as he received a major music industry award.
Friends, family and many well-known personalities gathered in Dublin's Burlington Hotel to see Gogan pick up this year's Irish Recorded Music Association award for his contribution to the music industry throughout a career that has spanned 44 years.
He received the award from his long-time friend Terry Wogan. Bob Geldof, Larry Mullen and the Corrs featured in a video that was specially produced for the occasion.
Gogan arrived at the charity event with his two sons and three daughters "still overwhelmed" by his nomination. "I just do my job. I play records that people seem to like. It's not rocket science . . . I just kind of talk to the microphone like it is a friend", he said.
"I am delighted to send warmest congratulations to Larry Gogan on his receipt of the most prestigious award in the music industry today, the Irma award," said Mrs McAleese in a statement.
"Since 1961, Larry has inspired young and old alike with his own enthusiastic and professional brand of entertainment, and has been heralded not only as a truly gifted artist but for so many as a true and respected friend."
Terry Wogan said: "It was just after the Napoleonic wars when we started broadcasting together and we have been great pals ever since. Larry is the most loved broadcaster in Ireland . . . He is the king."
Proceeds from the event will go to Crumlin hospital, the Chernobyl Children's Project and the Irma Trust. Guests at the party included fellow broadcasters Gay Byrne, Ryan Tubridy and Ian Dempsey.