TRIBUTES FLOW FOR WORKER KILLED IN LIMAVADY ACCIDENT
TRIBUTES have been paid to a Limavady refuse collector who died after being hit by the bin lorry he was working on yesterday morning.
John Winton (51), who was employed by Causeway Coast and Glens Council, died in the Mount Eden area of the Co Londonderry town.
Emergency crews who rushed to the scene included members from Limavady Fire Station where Mr Winton worked as a part time firefighter.
Mr Winton had previously served as a soldier in the Army and toured Afghanistan before returning to civilian life in his home town three years ago.
The father of two was a wellknown figure in the Orange fra-
ternity, and was a member of the Roe Valley Ex-Servicemen’s Lodge and the Star of the Roe Flute Band.
Graham Stewart, the Worshipful Master of the Roe Valley
Ex-Serviceman’s’ Lodge, described Mr Winton as a man of great dignity who served many years fighting for freedom.
Mr Stewart said: “We are extremely saddened by the death
of John Winton who was a member of our lodge. John was dignified in everything he did and was well respected.
“It is poignant that he survived tours in Afghanistan and passed away in such a tragic manner.”
Norman Alcorn, Secretary of the Star of the Roe Flute band, added: “Everyone in the band is deeply shocked by this dreadful news.
“John had a long association with the Star of the Roe Band. He was a member when he was a teenager but left when he was away with the Army. He joined the band again two or three years ago when he returned home.
“John was extremely proud of his heritage. We offer our sincere condolences to his family at this extremely sad time.”
Chief Fire and Rescue Officer, Gary Thompson, also paid tribute to Mr Winton. He said: “Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service is devastated to learn of the death of our colleague Firefighter John Winton who died in an off-duty incident.
“On behalf of NIFRS, I extend our sincere sympathies and condolences to John’s family, his mother Margaret and his children Lisa and Gavin, at this difficult time.
“John was a dedicated firefighter serving his home town with distinction and he was extremely popular amongst his colleagues.”
The Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Brenda Chivers, also offered her condolences.
She said: “Our thoughts and prayers are with John’s family and friends and we offer them our heartfelt sympathies at this time.”
The PSNI said an investigation is under way into the incident, and the Health and Safety Executive also attended the scene to make enquiries.