Funeral details for tragic Wexford cyclist Mark Flood announced after sudden death

Mark Flood (62) was cycling with fellow members of the local Barrow Wheelers cycling club on the R731 at Ballywilliam in New Ross around 1pm on Sunday when the group swerved to avoid an obstruction on the road and Mr Flood struck a tree.

Despite being treated at the scene by emergency services, Mr Flood died shortly afterwards.

Mr Flood, who was well-known as the proprietor of Brooks Jewellers and gift shop in New Ross, is survived by his wife Mary, daughters Rachel and Sarah, mother Vera, and grandson Elliott.

He will repose in Cooney's Funeral Home, New Ross on Wednesday afternoon, 27th April from 4pm to 8pm.

His funeral service will take place on Thursday, 28th April at St Mary’s Church of Ireland, New Ross at 2pm, followed by burial in the adjoining churchyard.

A notice on RIP.ie reads: “Mark D. Flood. 1958 – 2022. Glenside, Mount Elliott, New Ross.

“Beloved husband of Mary, father of Rachel and Sarah, son of Vera and the late Noel, brother of the late Sonia and grandfather of Elliott. Greatly missed. Our superhero in the background, our rock. ‘Abide with me.’

“Reposing in Cooney's Funeral Home, New Ross on Wednesday 27th April from 4pm to 8pm. Removal on Thursday 28th April to St Mary's Church of Ireland, New Ross (Y34DN82) for funeral service at 2pm, followed by burial in the adjoining churchyard.”

Tributes are being paid to Mark online in the days following his tragic death.

The Barrow Wheelers club paid tribute to him on its Facebook page on Monday with a simple, poignant message.

It read: “Yesterday we lost one of our Heroes. Rest in Peace our forever loved Friend Mark Flood.”

A photograph accompanied the message, showing Mr Flood in his cycling gear smiling at the camera while riding his bike in the sunshine.

Another person wrote: “Just can’t believe it, what a gentleman, my deepest condolences to his wife Mary, his family and work family, and to The Barrow Wheelers at this very very difficult time, RIP Mark.”

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“Mark was a rare and sincere gentleman. I am deeply saddened to hear the news today. May he rest in eternal peace,” said another.

Many of the messages referred to Mr Flood as a “gentleman” and expressed condolences to his family, friends and club mates.

Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to come forward and to those with camera footage (including dash-cam) to make it available to them.

Anyone with information is asked to contact New Ross Garda Station 051 426030, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.