Tributes to fisherman who lost life in tragedy

Tributes to fisherman who lost life in tragedy

14 February 2024

TRIBUTES have been pouring in for local fisherman Ally Smyth, who tragically died in a caravan fire on Friday morning.

The incident happened at the Coney Island caravan park with Mr Smyth described as a “much loved fisherman who will be sadly missed”.

Over 100 tributes have been posted on social media with people extending their sympathy to his relatives in the wake of his passing.

Mr Smyth has been described as a "big character" with a "heart of gold” with the Northern Ireland Fishery and Harbour Authority saying he will be sadly missed by everyone at the harbour.

In a social media post it said: “Ally was a much loved member of the fishing community and had been a fisherman his whole adult life. 

“He loved the sea and loved fishing and was a big character around the harbour. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.”

South Down MLA Colin McGrath said the community will rally around Mr Smyth’s family, describing his untimely death as “absolutely tragic news that has shocked the local community.’

Mr McGrath extended his deepest condolences to Mr Smyth’s family and friends as they come to terms with what happened last Friday.

“I know that people will rally around them and support them in whatever way they can,” he continued.

Mr McGrath also paid tribute to the emergency services who responded to last weekend’s fire and asked anyone who can assist police with their enquiries to come forward to help.

Downpatrick area councillor Conor Galbraith also extended his condolences to the Smyth family and Mr Smyth’s friends.

One local resident described Mr Smyth as a well known and respected fisherman, “a lovely quiet man” who helped a lot of people and that his death was “not only devastating, but completely shocking”.

The resident added: “The whole community, the fishermen he worked with especially, are stunned and very upset.”

A Facebook post by the Watersedge gift and coffee shop in Ardglass said: “We are totally devastated and heartbroken today with the sad passing of our dear friend Ally. No words can explain how we are all feeling.

“You were the life and soul off all the parties and could keep a nation going. You had a heart of gold and a smile that could lighten up any room. As Linda put it, there is a dark cloud hanging over the harbour today.”

The post added: “Thoughts and prayers are with his family and son and all his friends and fishermen at this heart-breaking time. Ally you will be sorely missed but the memories you left us with live in our hearts forever. Rest easy big man.”

The Parish of Bright also shared its condolences on Facebook.

Its post read: “We pray for the family at this sad and difficult time. May Ally rest in God’s Eternal Peace. Amen.”

Police have confirmed that enquiries into the fatal caravan fire are continuing.