Inset (L-R): James Gordon from Cullybackey, Scarlett Rossborough from Larne, and Josh Colligan from Carrickfergus.
Mid and East Antrim councillors stood in silent tribute as a mark of respect at the September meeting of the borough council after the tragic death of three young residents recently.
Leading tributes was Mid and East Antrim Mayor Alderman Gerardine Mulvenna who said:
“I was shocked and saddened to learn of the tragic death last month of eight-year-old Scarlett Rossborough from Larne as the result of a road traffic collision in High Street Carrickfergus.
“Scarlett had been part of an organised summer scheme outing to the town when the tragedy occurred. The loss of a child especially in such circumstances is devastating not only for Scarlett’s family but also a huge shock to the local community.
“There are no words that can adequately reflect the sense of loss and pain being felt by all concerned. We would also keep in mind the five-year-old boy who was injured in the incident as he recovers.
“I wish to pay tribute to all the first responders and emergency services who attended the scene of this incident particularly the Air Ambulance for their efforts in very upsetting circumstances.
“On behalf of all members of council, I would extend our sincere condolences to Scarlett’s parents, brother, extended family circle and friends and our thoughts are with them at this very difficult time.
“We also had the tragic news of the death of 19-year-old James Gordon from Cullybackey who died in a recent road traffic accident outside Ballycastle. On behalf of council, I would extend our sincere sympathies to James’s parents, sister, wider family and friends and our thoughts are with them as this very very sad time."
Knockagh DUP Cllr Peter Johnston asked the council to pay tribute to 29-year-old Josh Colligan, a soldier, from Carrickfergus, whose funeral took place on September 4.
Cllr Johnston told the chamber of Josh’s “battle with ME and his last request was that his story would be told to raise awareness of ME and the consequences it can have”.
An online tribute to Josh Colligan said:
“Josh was energetic and active and loved everything to do with the outdoors. He was an avid runner, passionate about pushing himself through physical activities.
“Josh battled with severe ME/CFS (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome) for six years before finally losing his battle with the illness.
“We want Josh to be remembered for the warrior he was, battling this illness, and we want to continue to spread the word so more research can be done in the hope one day we will find a cure and nobody else will need to suffer as Josh did.”