Tributes have been paid following the sudden death of a prominent Co Down businessman following an accident at his home.
Paul Ward (57) was found dead early on Sunday morning at his home in the Killough area.
The father-of-five was well known in the area as a prominent building contractor. He was also a director in the family business, domiciliary care company Down Community Care and owner of the King’s Castle home in Ardglass.
Mr Ward’s body was found early on Sunday morning close to the automated gates at the house overlooking Killough Bay.
Emergency services were called to the scene but the businessman was dead before they arrived.
Killough Community Centre, with whom Mr Ward had strong links, posted an online tribute to him on Sunday.
“We are absolutely shocked and devastated by the news of the passing of Paul Ward Snr and send are heartfelt condolences to Una and the entire family circle,” they said.
“The family have asked that the house remains completely private at this time.”
News Catch Up – Sunday 9 March
Gareth Sharvin, SDLP councillor for Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, posted his own tribute to Mr Ward.
“What a gentleman Paul Ward Snr – in shock at the news of his passing,” he said.
“I wish to express my deepest condolences and prayers to Una, all the children and the wider Ward family circle at this difficult time.”
The PSNI said Mr Ward’s death was not being treated as suspicious.
“Police attended a report of the sudden death of a man in the Station Road area of Killough, County Down on Sunday March 9,” said a spokesperson.
“A post-mortem will take place to establish the cause of death. However, it is not being treated as suspicious at this time.”