Paul McDonnell

Mr McDonnell, formerly a partner at McKinty and Wright (now part of DAC Beachcroft) and a consultant at Carson McDowell, had been an in-house lawyer at the Belfast Telegraph and Sunday Life since 2016.

He was admitted to the roll of solicitors in Northern Ireland in January 1993.

Eoin Brannigan, editor-in-chief of the Belfast Telegraph and Sunday Life, said: “As legal counsel to the Belfast Telegraph and Sunday Life, Paul was a constant presence in our lives. We’re all shocked and saddened by his death.

“Professionally, his advice was bold when the situation demanded, but cautious when necessary. Most of all, he was a gentleman, always approachable and a pleasure to deal with.”