Matthew Sherdian Tributes: Galway Student Whose Halloween Costume Set Alight Critical [PHOTOS]

Matthew Sheridan has been named as the Galway medical student whose sheep Halloween costume set on fire on Wednesday night.

The 21-year-old, who studies at the National University of Ireland, Galway, is in a critical condition in hospital after suffering from 80 per cent burns. He has now been moved to St James's Hospital in Dublin.

Sheridan's sheep costume set on fire in the Halo nightclub in Galway. Police are now investigating the incident.

Since being hospitalised, friends and other well-wishers have been posting messages of support on Twitter.

DC Freeman ‏said: "Spare a thought for the most genuine guy anyone could hope to meet, Matthew Sheridan, who is in St James Hospital tonight..."

Sarah Gaffney wrote: "All my thoughts and prayers are with Matty Sheridan tonight. What a lovely guy, what a terrible accident. Everyone is wishing him the best."

Ellen OBeirn said: "Thoughts and Prayers with Matty Sheridan #speedyrecovery"

The NUI issued a statement about Sheridan, which said: "Matthew is a highly motivated, respected student who shows evidence of real leadership potential and commitment to his community. He is a very popular student who is well loved by his classmates and peers.

"A university staff member was contacted by the emergency services in the immediate aftermath of the incident and was able to provide assistance in quickly contacting Matthew's family in Dublin."

Meanwhile, others have posted messages of support. Barry Taylor wrote: "Judging by friends tweets and statuses, Matthew Sheridan seems like a top bloke. Halloween has far too many freak accidents. Quick recovery."

The Irish Independent is reporting that Sheridan's costume was home-made and had been created mostly from cotton wool.

Last year, Sheridan raised 464 Euros (£371) for the Galway Rape Crisis Centre by completing a skydive.