Mayo mourns death of widely popular restaurateur

Tributes are being paid to Sinéad Lambert-Barroso, Carrabawn, Westport, whose death has taken place.

Sinéad, along with her husband Jose and son Evan, ran Sol Rio Restaurant in Westport for over 25 years.

In announcing the heartbreaking news of her death on its social media platforms, the restaurant stated in a tribute: "Sinéad was not only loved and respected by her loyal team, she was also well loved by the local community.

"She was such an enormous part of business in Bridge Street, the hospitality industry of Westport and the Restaurant trade of Ireland.

"Sinéad had such a positive outlook on life, which was both admirable and contagious.

"An extraordinary character, with a wicked sense of humour, a hard working ethic and a lot of charm.

"Sinéad’s untimely passing is truly a great loss to our team, our dear customers, the businesses of Bridge Street and the many friends of Sol Rio."

Local Councillor Brendan Mulroy said the deceased absolutely loved everything about Westport.

"She was a fantastic advocate for the business community and much, much more.

"Bridge Street will never be the same again.

"Our deepest sympathies to the family at this very difficult time."

Other lovely tributes have been paid to her on social media.

"Sinéad was such a lovely lady, always great fun and up for a chat and a laugh. She will be dearly missed," one stated.

"A light has gone out in Westport," another said.

A further tribute described her as 'a gem.'

Predeceased by her father Nicky and brother Nicky Jnr., Sinéad will be sadly missed by her loving husband José and son Evan, her mother Maureen, sisters Maura, Cathriona, Úna and Gráinne, brothers Charlie and Michael, mother-in-law Anna Barroso, sister-in-law Maria Marinho, brother-in-law Manuel Marinho, nephews and nieces of Barroso and Lambert families, aunts, uncles, brothers and sisters-in-laws, relatives and friends.

Deepest sympathy is extended to the bereaved family on their loss.

Sinéad will be reposing in Navin's Funeral Home, Westport, on Monday, December 19, from 4 to 7 p.m.

Funeral will arrive at St. Mary's Church, Westport, on Tuesday at 12 noon for Requiem Mass at 1 p.m.

Interment takes place afterwards in Aughagower Cemetery.

May her gentle soul rest in peace.