11 hours ago
Slane Castle open for public tributes to Lord Henry Mount Charles
The family of Lord Henry Mount Charles will open the gates of Slane Castle this weekend, inviting members of the public to pay their respects and sign a Book of Condolence in honour of the late music promoter and custodian of one of Ireland's most iconic venues.
Lord Henry, who died on Tuesday aged 74 after a long illness, was widely credited with transforming Slane Castle into a globally recognised live music destination. His son, Alex, the Marquess Conyngham, said in a statement that the family had been "profoundly moved" by the public response to his passing.
"We have been truly touched by the strength of public sentiment and are deeply grateful for the countless expressions of sympathy and shared memories," he said.
"Dad's warmth, spirit and dedication to Slane, its people and its legacy forged friendships that extended incredibly far and wide."
The Book of Condolence will be available to sign on the grounds of Slane Castle this Saturday and Sunday, 21 and 22 June, between 10am and 6pm.
"This will be an opportunity for all those who knew Henry, enjoyed the magic of Slane, or simply wish to express their sympathies to come together in his memory at the place he loved so deeply," the family said in a statement. They also expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and requested privacy as they grieve.
Tributes have continued to pour in for Lord Henry, who was instrumental in bringing some of the world's biggest acts to Ireland over the past four decades. Artists including U2, Queen, Madonna and The Rolling Stones have all played Slane Castle under his stewardship.
Concert promoter Denis Desmond of MCD described him as a true "rock 'n' roll icon" and a "visionary with an enormous sense of fun and a tremendous work ethic".
"Henry had an enormous impact on the acts who played at Slane," Desmond said. "World-class performers would talk about him long after the final note sounded. He wanted everyone to have a great time, stay safe, and come again."
Desmond recalled Lord Henry's hands-on approach, often working through the night and staying closely connected to the live music industry even during his later years in hospital.
"His laugh was infectious," he added. "He had a sense of humour that often shone brightest in darker moments. Truly, we will not see his likes again."
