By Bob Huggins
One of mid-Ulster's most prominent businessmen has died following a short illness.
Gilbert Crawford was the Managing Director of Crawford's Department store in Maghera and was also widely known as an auctioneer, a farmer and property owner.
Mr. Crawford, who lived at Station Road in Maghera, died on Tuesday morning at the Causeway hospital in Coleraine.
His funeral service will take place in Maghera Presbyterian Church on Thursday at 2.00 pm with burial afterwards in the adjoining graveyard.
As a mark of respect the family business will be closed on Thursday 7th September.
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