The former partner of Glen Hansard has said she always believed the late musician ‘had a gift from god.’

Czech and Icelandic actress Markéta Irglová shared a heartfelt tribute on Facebook not long after the ‘Once’ star’s private cremation after his star-studded funeral on Tuesday.

The 56-year-old died after losing control of his motorbike in the early hours of last Wednesday morning near the Strawberry Beds in Lucan, Dublin.

More than 11,000 fans attended his public wake on Monday, while his funeral at St Patrick’s Cathedral saw a star-studded lineup attend, including U2 frontman Bono, The Edge, Pearl Jam singer Eddie Vedder, Imelda May and The Frames.

Speaking after his private cremation, Markéta wrote on social media: ‘Glen was a big spirit on a big mission. I always believed he had a gift from God and was imbued with power from the earth.

‘It is never easy to carry as much as he did.

‘Helping him carry some of it along the way has been the honor of my life. I thank him and God for the trust and know we shall meet again. So long, my friend,’ she added.

Markéta previously broke her silence to offer her ‘deepest sympathies to his family’ following his death.

She wrote: ‘My deepest condolences to Glen’s family, his brothers and his beautiful wife and son, you are all in my thoughts and prayers.

‘I am so sorry for your tragic loss, my heart goes out to you. May his love always surround you, his spirit guide and protect you, and may his light shine on throughout your days.

‘The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.’