Latest news with #NIAirAmbulance
Belfast Telegraph
5 days ago
- Sport
- Belfast Telegraph
‘Our hero, too kind for this world': Footballer who died weeks after crash laid to rest in Co Armagh
Mourners gathered in Knocknamuckley Parish Church near Portadown on Wednesday to say their final farewell to Aaron Moffett. A group of young people formed a guard of honour as the coffin was carried into the church. The 38-year-old, from the Knocknamuckley area, was involved in a collision near Markethill while making his way back from a Twelfth of July parade in Keady. Aaron was taken to hospital following the crash on Coolmillish Road, but died last Friday. A funeral notice described Aaron as "the darling husband of Lindsey, devoted son of John and Florence, loving brother of Hannah, dear son in law of Philip and Jennifer, cherished brother in law of Ashley, Chris and Vicky and also incredibly loved uncle of Bodhi, Sonny, Carson and Arthur'. It said he 'went to sleep one last time surrounded by his loving family' on August 1. "Sincerely loved and forever missed by his entire circle of family and friends,' the notice continued. "Our hero, too kind for this world.' The family had requested donations for the charity REVIVE, which supports the work of ICU wards, and for the NI Air Ambulance. A private committal took place following the service led by Rev Ian McGrath. Stormont's Deputy First Minister previously paid tribute to the former Dollingstown FC player who spent 13 years with the club as a player and captain. Emma Little-Pengelly described his passing 'an absolute tragedy'. "Aaron was so respected and loved by so many,' she said. "It is a real testimony to him and his character to see the outpouring of grief and all the many poignant reflections on his life and contribution.' His former club, which he retired from in 2021, posted on social media: 'May you rest in peace skipper'. Dollingstown FC also made a poignant post: 'May you rest in peace skipper'. 'It is with total sadness that we announce the passing of Aaron Moffett. Words simply will never do him justice,' the club added. 'Moff was simply Mr Dollingstown, loved by all. '(He played) 13 years as captain of the club, winning countless trophies along the way, he then took up the job of secretary where he played a vital role in the running and progress of the club ever since. 'He was respected and admired by clubs all over the island. We thank each and every one of you for the messages and phone calls of support. 'A total gentleman who we will never forget.' News Catch Up - Wednesday 6th August DUP MLA Jonathan Buckley previously said that Aaron's family are 'devastated'. Speaking to this newspaper, Mr Buckley said: 'He was a popular young man and they are a well-respected family; it is just devastating,' he said. 'He was known in so many circles and was so highly regarded, it was news no one wanted to hear. 'He fought a brave fight but he has unfortunately succumbed to his injuries and my thoughts go out to his wife Lindsey and mum and dad and sisters- and brothers-in-law and many uncles and aunties.'
Belfast Telegraph
04-05-2025
- Sport
- Belfast Telegraph
New record time is set on day highest number of people take part in Belfast City Marathon
From fitness fanatics and fun runners to elite athletes and those doing shorter relays for charity, the city was buzzing with energy from early on Sunday morning. The sun ensured a pleasant day for spectators, even if it did sap the energy of those pounding the streets. As well as a new record time being set and the first female wheelchair participant competing, the number of runners was the highest ever, with 6,500 signed up to run the full distance, 2,750 relay teams of between two and five people, and 1,200 walkers. The annual event started at Stormont Estate and finished up in Ormeau Park, where runners finally had a chance to catch their breath. SDLP leader Claire Hanna became the first MP to finish the race, with the added bonus of crossing the line in her own constituency. Posting a photo of herself in Ormeau Park smiling and clutching her medal, she said: 'What a day. Belfast Marathon done — 26.2 miles of slog & inspiration. 'The cheers, jelly beans & funny signs make it all bearable. Relieved, tired and grateful.' The DUP's running veteran, North Belfast MLA Brian Kingston — with 15 marathons under his belt — finished in 3:32 as he raised funds for the NI Air Ambulance. 'The crowds along the route were the largest I've seen for the Belfast Marathon,' he posted on X, thanking the church and community choirs and bands who sang and played to the runners. While some ran the entire 26.2 miles, others joined in a team relay or participated in the eight-mile walk. Many took part to support various charities or accomplish personal goals. Among the participants was Alannah Campbell (22), who ran a leg of the marathon in aid of Action Cancer. 'The easiest bit was at the start, just the atmosphere with everyone — it was a lot easier having encouragement,' she said. 'The hardest bit was the sun, it was quite warm but it was very fun.' There were also a number of running groups, such as The Supported Living Scheme for Adults with Learning Disabilities. Situated in the Mourne Grange, Patricia Haughian explained: 'We are a group of walkers and runners who are raising money for people living with learning disabilities. 'The hardest part of the walk was half-way. If I had the ability to run it, I would have, but probably not.' Many said the atmosphere from the crowds lining the roads spurred them on when the going got tough. Those not running for a charity wanted to challenge themselves or run for a bit of fun. Barry Smith, who ran for himself and for 'a bit of craic', said it was 'enjoyable and good support throughout'. Barry has already run 21 marathons in his lifetime, including London, New York and Dublin. 'London was the best. The atmosphere there was fantastic and it's the hardest marathon to get into, but this was fun too,' he said. Barry, who completed the run in three hours and two minutes, said he would run Belfast again. Jake Huston (22) was also 'running for a bit of craic'. 'I did a relay of 37 minutes and it was good fun,' he said. 'It was very busy and I passed a lot of people, it was good encouragement.' Méabh Lowe ran with work colleagues at Murphy O'Rawe Solicitors in Belfast in aid of the NI Hospice. 'We just thought it would be a great charity because, I mean, there's very few families in Northern Ireland who haven't been affected in some way by cancer,' she said. 'We have a lady in our office, Betty, whose sister sadly passed away last week. So, we were thinking about her today and supporting all those families affected by cancer.' Meanwhile, a 34-year-old immigration advisor raised more than £10,000 for a Palestinian aid charity. Canadian woman Portia Larlee — who lives in Belfast — was running in her first ever marathon to raise funds for the Medical Aid for Palestinians charity, which works in the West Bank, Gaza and Lebanon. Ms Larlee said the support from the Belfast public had helped her reach the finish line in her maiden race. 'The last three kilometres were super tough, but there was a lot of support along the way for Medical Aid for Palestinians,' she said. 'I think the people of Belfast really support the cause. 'I've just tried to do what I could and give people an opportunity to spread the word about this important charity. 'I think I will do more; it's been a really, really great day. There were lots of friends and family and people from my office supporting me along the route. 'Belfast stands against genocide. It needs to end now.' This year's men's champions were Tilahun Nigussie who broke the Belfast Marathon record with a time of 2:13:37. The Ethiopian was followed by Aaron Hanlon of Drogheda and District Athletic Club, with a time of 2:27:06. In third place was Stephen Connolly of Annadale Striders with a time of 2:29:30. For the women, first place went to Kenya's Millicent Kibet with a time of 2:38:30. In second place, Lalla Aziza Alaoui Selsoui finished in a time of 2:38:51. Gladys Ganiel of North Belfast Harriers finished at 2:45:46. Jayne Bleakley came home in a time of 2:29:28 to win the wheelchair race in her debut marathon. She was the first female wheelchair participant to take part in the events history.
