A priest who presided over a Clapham parish for 12 years and helped survivors and families of the Clapham Rail disaster, has died.

Monsignor Patrick Keaveny was appointed parish priest of St Vincent de Paul, Clapham Common, in September 1982 and also took on responsibility for organising pilgrimages to Lourdes.

On December 12, 1988, he was called to the scene of the Clapham rail crash to minister and provide support to those involved, and afterwards continued to work closely with victims and families.

During 12 years in Clapham, he oversaw completion of the new presbytery, parish rooms and a hall.

Born in County Sligo, Ireland, he also had appointments in Southwark and Bermondsey and was involved in the preparations for the Papal visit of John Paul II, in 1982, particularly in coordinating the arrangements for the Service of the Sick in St George’s Cathedral, Southwark.

In light of this work, and in recognition of his loyalty and efficiency, he was made a Papal Chaplain.

He later spent time ministering in Dublin before returning to Bexley as a parish priest.

He served 44 years in the priesthood, and in his spare time was a keen golfer and enjoyed travelling abroad, especially to France.

Described as easy to be with and cultured, he died at Sacred Heart Residence, Sybil Hill Road, Dublin, on Tuesday, February 16, aged 79.

His Funeral took place at St Columcille's Church, Kells, on Saturday, February 20.