Inspirational Bangor mum Diane loses cancer battle

COURAGEOUS Bangor motherof-two Diane McCaughan has died following a battle with cancer.

In an interview with the Belfast Telegraph in 2014, Mrs McCaughan, who was in her 40s, spoke with remarkable bravery about having a life-limiting illness.

A dedicated runner since 2008, she embraced athletics two years after going through a mastectomy and chemotherapy.

Valerie McDonough, chairperson of North Down Athletic Club, made one of many touching tributes on social media.

“Diane McCaughan has been taken prematurely from this world but has left a lasting mark on all who knew her. Diane’s enthusiasm for life was infectious. She remained bright and optimistic throughout her battle with cancer. I would like to express my deepest sympathies to her husband, Sherrard, son Ben and daughter Emma. Her legacy lives on. Rest in peace, friend.”

Speaking after the funeral service held yesterday, her sister Nicola Dickson made her own tribute to: “My beautiful brave big sister”.

“It was a fantastic turnout, showed the esteem in which she was and is held,” she said of the service. “Ben and Emma McCaughan are a credit to her and Sherrard and she lives on through them.”

Alliance Party councillor Andrew Muir added: “Feel very privileged to have known Diane McCaughan who will be sorely missed by many. Diane was real inspiration, courageous and determined until the end who despite the challenges kept running with a smile. Always warm and positive, it was a real joy to see Diane at parkrun and other races.”