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03rd Jun 2022

Dermot Bannon pays tribute to Room To Improve colleague who has passed away

Sarah McKenna Barry

May he rest in peace.

Room to Improve’s Dermot Bannon has paid tribute to his colleague Karl Cullen, who has passed away aged 30.

Karl was killed in a car crash on Sunday, which took place in Clonhaston in Co. Wexford.

His car collided with a ditch and he was subsequently pronounced dead.

Gardaí are appealing to any witnesses to the collision, which happened at 7:30pm on the R744, to get in touch.

Mr Cullen worked as a tradesman, and as well as being featured on Room to Improve, he appeared on DIY: SOS. He also had his own business – Karl Cullen Fitted Kitchens – which he launched in 2015.

Dermot Bannon took to Instagram to share the news of Mr Culllen’s death.

He wrote: “Devastated to hear that kind, gentle, unbelievably talented Karl Cullen has tragically died so young, he played a huge part on Room to Improve over the years creating some of the most beautiful joinery, a fantastic problem solver, enthusiastic collaborator and an all round wonderful soul.”

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He added: “Heartbroken for his parents Karl and Annette, his Brothers Darren and Diarmuid and all his family.”

Other stars have since paid their condolences to Karl in the comments section.

Ireland’s Fittest Family star Anna Geary wrote: “So sorry to hear that.”

One of the show’s former participants Laura commented: “Still can’t believe it. Lovely Karl did so much for us here in Howth. We will never forget his energy, patience, generosity and all his input into our dream home. Taken too soon, may he rest in peace.”

His local GAA club, the Enniscorthy Shamrocks, have also paid tribute to Karl.

In a statement, they said: “Karl was never one to back down from a challenge on the pitch and we have so many fond memories of him, especially our championship winning seasons of 2013 and 2014 which Karl was a pivotal player.

“We are devastated as we come to terms with it and our hearts go out to his family and massive circle of friends.”