IRISH GROUP THE Calvinists have expressed their deep sadness at the loss of their bassist, Taidhg Burke.

In a statement released today, the Cork band said that the bass player passed away from injuries he sustained in a car accident on Sunday morning, and they were “deeply saddened” by the news.

Hundreds of people have already paid tribute to the young musician on the band’s Facebook page.

The Calvinists, who had recently featured on the cover of Hotpress, said:

This is obviously a very sad & difficult time for his family, the band and his friends. Taidhg was so loved by everyone who knew him. He was a fantastic songwriter, bass player, performer and friend. Taidhg’s family & the band would like to say a huge thank you to everyone for their support in this extremely diffiult time. Taidhg will be in our hearts forever and words can’t even express how much we will miss him.

They added that his mother Sandie “has asked us to send her love to you all and asked that everyone please please take a lesson from this tragedy, to stay safe on the roads, wear a seat belt and please try to make the right decision when driving at all times”.

Burke had been injured in a single car collision on Sunday morning at Bridge St in Bantry. The collision occurred at around 4am and Burke was brought to Bantry General Hospital.

Gardaí have appealed for witnesses to the incident to contact Bantry Garda Station on 027 20860, the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111 or any garda station.

Read: Man injured in Cork crash passes away>