Next of kin sought from Leitrim

A call has been put out on the national airwaves to identify the family of a man who passed away in England last August.

Joe Sheridan cannot be buried until the body is released to his next of kin.

Fr Robert Murphy from Birmingham in the UK contacted Liveline on Wednesday, October 10 trying to trace the relatives of Joe 'Punch' Sheridan. It is believed that Mr Sheridan had hailed from Ballinagleragh, Co Leitrim or possibly around Kilnaleck or Kingscourt in Co Cavan.

Mr Sheridan, a resident of Swindon, passed away in August 2018 aged around 85 years. Fr Murphy said the matter had been publicised locally, but they were looking to reach a wider audience. As yet no one has come forward with information on contacting Mr Sheridan's next of kin.

A friend of the deceased man said he had relatives in Birmingham, but efforts to contact them have been unsuccessful. Mr Sheridan was described as a small stocky man and very gentle. Around 85 years of age he has lived in England for the last 60 during which time he worked in the building trade.

Fr Murphy said that the authorities can only release the body to next of kin for burial. ‭If you can assist in any please contact. (01) 961 0122