Widespread sorrow at the sad passing of an original Clipper Carlton member, Art O'Hagan

There is a widespread sense of shock and sorrow at the news today of the sad passing of Art O'Hagan, an original member of the Clipper Carlton Showband, the very first showband in Ireland.

The Strabane bass player and singer would have been well-known throughout the county and often performed at many venues all over Donegal and beyond.

Formed in 1950, Art and his colleagues made their mark with their innovative use of costume, comedy and impersonation.

The Clippers were considered groundbreaking as they challenged the traditional orchestras and dance bands that had previously dominated the halls in Ireland.

Their set list combined jazz, Dixieland, foxtrots and later rock ‘n’ roll and their pastiches included covers of songs by Al Jolson, Louis Armstrong, Eddie Calvert, Elvis Presley and the Everly Brothers.

The late Mr O'Hagan passed away earlier today at Altnagelvin Hospital, Derry.

Beloved husband of the late Nora, much loved father of Anne, Mary, Art and the late John, dearly loved grandfather of Rory, Terry, Lee, Sean, Gary, Johnny, Laura, Richard, Lucas and the late Peter and brother of Sally and the late Betty, Patsy and Fergus.

Reposing at his home 21 Melmount Gardens, Strabane this evening from 6.30p.m. Funeral leaving his home on Friday, September 22 at 9.25am. for Requiem Mass in St Mary's Church, Melmount at 10am. Interment afterward in the adjoining cemetery.