Funeral of Professor Patrick Johnston will take place in Belfast on Thursday

The funeral of the Derry-born Vice Chancellor of Queen’s University, Professor Patrick Johnston, will take place on Thursday.

Professor Johnston, regarded as one of the world’s foremost cancer research specialists, died suddenly on Sunday during a visit to Donegal.

He was 58.

Professor Johnston’s death was met with shock in educational and medical circles.

He has been praised widely for his impact on cutting cancer death rates.

His remains will be transferred to Belfast this evening.

A spokesperson for Queen’s University said those wishing to pay their respects in person are welcome to attend the family home until 9pm this evening and from 12noon until 9pm tomorrow.

Funeral Mass will be in St. Brigid’s Parish Church, Derryvolgie Avenue at 11am on Thursday, with the cortege leaving Professor Johnston’s home at approximately 10.30am.

Light refreshments will be served after Mass in St. Bride’s Hall.

The spokesperson added that anyone wishing to make a donation should do so to Cancer Research UK or to Cancer Focus Northern Ireland.