Racehorse owner Dr Brendan Doyle died on Saturday morning after taking ill during the week.

A close friend of trainer Willie Mullins and a very popular figure in Irish racing, he owned a number of smart horses over the years including multiple winners Punting Pete and Quiscover Fontaine.

Dr Doyle was also a council member of the Association of Irish Racehorse Owners.

Senator Jennifer Murnane O'Connell posted on social media: "I join with the county of Carlow, shocked and saddened to hear the awful news that Carlow County Coroner and local GP Dr. Brendan Doyle has died following a short illness.

"An eminent doctor who saved so many lives, cared for so many and was a source of comfort for families across the county, a man who the people of Carlow could rely on and will be sorely missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, all who considered him a dear friend and his many many patients. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a h’anam"

The Irish Field extends its sincere condolences to Dr Doyle's family and many friends.

The following death notice is taken from rip.ie

Dr. Brendan M. Doyle died April 13th 2019 (peacefully) at St Luke’s Hospital, Kilkenny, surrounded by his family, following a short illness. Beloved father of Maria, Brendan, Stephanie and the late Elaine and adoring grandfather to Annie. Sadly missed by his children, Vonnie, son-in-law Christian, daughter-in-law Noeleen, sister Sally, brothers Larry and Mark, nieces, nephews, extended family, relatives and many friends.

Rest in Peace.

Reposing in R. Healy & Son Funeral Home, Pollerton Castle, Carlow (Eircode R93 TC53) on Monday (April 15th) from 5pm concluding with prayers at 8pm. Funeral Mass on Tuesday (April 16th) at 11am in the Cathedral of the Assumption, Carlow. Burial afterwards in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Family flowers only please. Donations if desired to the Irish Heart Foundation.

House private, please.