Popular young Katesbridge man becomes latest road victim
Wednesday, 14 July 2010
THE rural village of Katesbridge has buried the province's latest road victim who lost his life in a tragic road accident on Saturday afternoon.
Twenty-eight year old Cecil McCutcheon, who was from the village, was killed the Black Ford Sierra Cosworth he had been driving left the main Katesbridge Road about half a mile from the village.
Police say the accident happened around 2.15pm, and added that initial inquiries suggest only one vehicle was involved. A second man, also in his 20's, was a passenger in the vehicle but was unhurt.
It is believed Cecil was planning to marry his long term girlfriend Jemma Davenport.
Cecil was the youngest son in the family, having three older sisters. It is widely reported that his passion was restoring classic style vehicles and he was a highly respected mechanic within his community.
The Rev David Sommerville officiated at Cecil's funeral service on Tuesday in Drumgooland Church of Ireland.
He visited the bereaved family just after their loss and revealed they are understandably shaken by their tragic loss.
The Rev Sommerville had the good fortune to have taught Cecil during his time as a school teacher in Rathfriland High School. He said: "I remember him quite clearly. He always had a twinkle in his eye and enjoyed life to the full. He was very popular and well liked.
“My son and Cecil were both in the same class together in school as well. I am aware that he won prizes for his craftsmanship with the antique cars that he entered into rallies and competitions. Both he and his father shared a special love for Mark II Escourts. His family have told me they will have a parade of classic vehicles at his service in his honour."
He added: "His death comes as a terrible shock to the community and young people, especially his peers, find the nature of this death hard to deal with and my prayers are with them and his close family circle."
UUP Councillor for the area, Liz Ingram, was saddened by the young loss of life.
She said: "It was with great sadness that I learned on Saturday night that a young life had been lost in this tragic accident in our area.
“I know my words of sympathy will not go far in taking away the grief and pain Cecil's family and friends must be feeling at this time. However, I would want them and the passenger who was in the car to know that they are being held close in the thoughts and prayers of the many people in the area at this sad time."
Cecil's death brings the total number of people killed in Ulster's roads so far this year to 29.
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