Tommy McNicholas was a legendary figure in the construction industry having worked at “Green Macs” for 60 years.

He took over as chairman of McNicholas in 1980 following the death of his father Pat who founded the firm in 1949.

Tommy oversaw a period of rapid expansion at the civil engineering specialist and took on the role of Life President in 2004.

Tommy’s son Barry is current Chief Executive of the company having taken over at the helm in 2005.

One industry commentator said: “Tommy was a real giant in construction and this is a sad day for the industry.

“He was a great character and everyone that knew him will miss him greatly.”

A company statement said: “It is with great sadness that the Directors of McNicholas Holdings and the McNicholas family announce the death of their President, Tommy McNicholas.

“Tommy passed away peacefully on the 8th May, after a sudden and brief illness.

“Tommy had served McNicholas for 60 years and had led the business to be a leader in the utilities and infrastructure sector.”

Barry said his father “was a modest man who was greatly respected by both his colleagues and his peers in the industry.

“He will be sorely missed by us all”.