Tributes being paid to one of Kilkenny’s pioneering craftsmen, Keith Leadbetter

Tributes are being paid to one of Kilkenny’s pioneering craftsmen, Keith Leadbetter who passed away earlier this week.

Keith and his wife Kathleen started, what’s now the world renowned business, Jerpoint Glass Studio in Stoneyford back in 1979.

A native of Stoke-on-Trent, Keith trained as a master glass blower in the prestigious Orrefors Glass Studio in Sweden.

Speaking to KCLR News this morning, CEO of the Design and Crafts Council of Ireland, Karen Hennessy says Keith’s loss will be greatly felt and his work has travelled all around the world – even featuring in some of the Harry Potter movies.

Keith will be laid to rest in Woodbrook Natural Burial Ground, Kilteely, Co Wexford tomorrow (Friday) at 1pm.