RIP: Tributes paid to Oscar-winning actress who studied in Waterford as a child

Tributes have been paid to an Oscar-winning actress who studied in County Waterford as a child.

Brenda Fricker, best known for her roles in My Left Foot and Home Alone 2: Lost In New York, has passed away at the age of 81.

In a statement, her agent Phil Belfield said: “We will never see her like again and the world is lesser for the lack of her.

“I was honoured to know, love and work with her and she will always have a place in my heart and in the heart of so many film and TV fans the world over.”

Ms Fricker became one of Ireland’s most celebrated actresses in a career that spanned over 60 years.

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The highlight of the Dublin-born woman’s career came in 1990 when she became the first Irish actress to win an Oscar.

Earlier this year, Dublin City Council announced that she would be awarded the Freedom of Dublin in recognition of her contribution to Irish arts and culture.

Tributes have poured in from across Irish society following the announcement of Ms Fricker’s passing.

Locally, Fine Gael councillor Damien Geoghegan paid tribute to the actress and highlighted the time she spent in Waterford.

In a post on Facebook, Cllr Geoghegan said: “Brenda Fricker - RIP. One of our finest actors. As a child, Brenda spent part of her education at Coláiste na Rinne.”

Meanwhile, his party leader, Tánaiste Simon Harris, said he was “deeply saddened” to hear of her death.

Elsewhere, actress Fionnula Flanagan said she was “totally devastated” by the news whilst director Jim Sheridan described Ms Fricker as “a force of nature”.

May She Rest in Peace.