Pat McCarrick is a member of Longford chess club.

The tragic news that Brian Collum had inexplicably died in his sleep at his home left the village of Drumlish and all those who knew him numb with shock. Brian was a talented under age chess player who won two All Ireland community games chess titles, one Leinster underage title and played on an Irish B U12 team in a quadrangular international against Ireland A, Scotland and Wales winning all three of his games. He played twenty five times for Longford Chess club in Leinster league matches between 2004 and 2009 winning 20, drawing twice and losing just three games.

Due to his many interests and talents he had little time to develop his chess or boost his rating by attending tournaments. He held an All-Ireland title in Irish dancing and was renowned as an accomplished and much sought after accordion player. A soccer and gaelic player in drumlish he played centre back for Longford minors in 2011 marking Ciarán Kilkenny in the Leinster Championship first half against eventual winners Dublin. Ciarán Kilkenny was switched to full forward for the second half after struggling against Brian as Dublin won by four points. An outstanding GAA player with Fr Manning Gaels, his number three jersey has been retired as a mark of respect.

I had the privilege of knowing Brian from age eight through chess. I remember him as reserved, thoughtful, happy and mature beyond his years. What struck me most was his modesty, unassuming nature and generosity of spirit. Having successfully completed the second year of his agricultural science degree course, he was due to fly to New York with two friends for the summer on Thursday 22/5/2014. He is survived by his loving parents Bernie and Peter and brothers Petie and Emmet. His church eulogy referred to him as a gentleman and the musicians played a wonderful piece composed by Brian himself. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.

The GAA hve published a tribute to Brian Collum.

Brian Collum, Longford Chess Club