Man ‘hit in face’ in lorry driver fight

Brave families urge: Don’t let any more bright, shining lights go out

CROWDS took to the streets of the capital on Saturday calling for action on suicide and mental health issues in Northern Ireland.

Among those taking part in the march was mother Patricia Ferrin from North Belfast, who recently lost third son Stephen after he took his own life.

The tragic 31-yearold’s brothers Kieran, 24, and Niall, 19, also died by suicide.

Mental health campaigner Philip McTaggart, who lost his son Philip when he took his own life in 2003, helped set up the rally.

He told The Mirror: “The reason for the march was to create urgency and focus around the issue of mental health and suicide prevention.

“We are calling on those in positions of power to set up a dedicated centre for people needing help - and also for families to be given proper support to deal with the situation they find themselves in.”

Mr McTaggart was full of praise for the bravery of those who turned out to back each other.

He added: “I was delighted with the turnout – delighted many people there came out to support those who had lost someone to suicide.

“There were young and old people there, and politicians too.”

And Mr McTaggart said the message was loud and clear – people didn’t want anybody to go through the same hell.

He said: “They were saying, ‘We don’t want any bright shining lights to go out. We want people to fulfil their purpose in life because that’s what it’s about.’” A MOTORIST was allegedly hit in the face by a truck driver in a bust-up between the two.

Police said the man was allegedly struck in the face by the driver of an articulated lorry on the A3 Northway, Co Armagh.

Officers came across the incident at around 3.50pm on Friday afternoon.

A police spokesman said: “Police are investigating after the male driver of a car was allegedly struck in the face by the driver of an articulated lorry.

“The incident happened close to the junction with Charles Street shortly before 4pm.

“A 59-year-old man was subsequently treated in hospital for a cut lip.”