The man who died after a house fire at a property in Co Tyrone has been named locally as Robert Stevenson MBE.
Mr Stevenson, known as Stevie, died following a fire at a residential property in the Pines area of Cookstown in the early hours of Wednesday morning, November 30.
The 94-year-old was a much-loved member of the local community and was the former the Vice-Principal of Cookstown High School.
Read more: PSNI confirm man's death after house fire
Mr Stevenson was also well-known for his extra-curricular activities, including his involvement in the field of hockey, athletics, and scouts. He had celebrated his birthday just four days before his passing.
Born in Glasgow, Robert had moved to Northern Ireland in 1948, where he graduated from Queen's University Belfast and began a career in teaching.
With his involvement in athletics, he kept time at 68 consecutive Ulster Schools Championships, and was a dedicated official for Athletics Northern Ireland.
A post shared by Athletics NI and written by John Glover added: "Despite all these achievements Stevie will primarily be remembered as one of nature's gentlemen."
In a post on social media, Ulster Schools Athletics said: "We were deeply saddened to hear the news that Mr Robert Stevenson (Stevie) sadly passed away last night/ early morning. He had celebrated his 94th birthday last Friday.
"Stevie has been a stalwart of athletics at District, Ulster and Irish level for many decades and will be sadly missed.
"Our thoughts are extended to his family and friends. Stevie is simply irreplaceable."
Local UUP councillor, Trevor Wilson, had known Robert, who he affectionately referred to as Stevie, for many years, with the two living just a mile away from each other.
He said: "My thoughts and prayers are with Stevie's family at this very sad time. He was heavily involved in the scouts movement and in sports, as well as serving as the Vice-Principal of Cookstown High School for many years.
"Nobody had a bad word to say about him. He was part of the scenery in the town and will be missed."
A funeral notice for Mr Stevenson confirmed cremation will take place in Roselawn Crematorium on Friday, December 9.
A thanksgiving service will then be held in First Presbyterian Church Cookstown on Sunday, January 8 2023.
"Lovingly remembered and deeply regretted by his many friends and associates,” the notice added.
Police received a report just before 4am on November 30 that a fire had started at a property in the Pines area.
A spokesperson for the PSNI added: "Investigations into the sudden death and to determine the cause of the fire are now underway.
"We would appeal to anyone with information who can assist with our enquiries to call us. Anyone with information is asked to call 101, and quote reference number 159 of 30/11/22.
"A report can also be made online using our non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/."
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