Books of condolence opened for Martin McGuinness and Ryan McBride

By Richard O'Reilly

Books of condolence have opened in Derry-Londonderry in memory of Martin McGuinness and Ryan McBride.

Martin McGuinness passed away in the early hours of Tuesday following a short illness. Books have been opened in both the Free Derry Museum and the Guildhall.

Speaking ahead of the opening of the book in the Guildhall, Derry City and Strabane District Mayor, Hilary McClintock extended her sympathies to the former Deputy First Minister's family.

She said: As Mayor I want to take this opportunity to express my sincere condolences upon hearing the news of the passing of former Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness. Martin McGuinness was a towering figure in Northern Ireland in general and in the city of Londonderry in particular.

“Whilst there will continue to be a diverse range of opinions on Mr McGuinness’ contribution to society over his lifetime it is clear that he had a passion for the city and the wider North West area. In recent years his contribution helped build on the relative peace we now enjoy.

Gerrry Adams pays tribute to Martin McGuinness pic.twitter.com/CkM6OrrAoK

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) March 21, 2017

“As Mayor of the city and surrounding district I know that many people are today both in shock and deeply saddened by his passing. I want to extend, both personally, and on behalf of the Council, my sympathy to Mr McGuinness’ wife Bernie and his family circle at this deeply traumatic time.

“My thoughts and prayers are with the McGuinness family today as they mourn the passing of a husband, father and a grandfather. I pray that they may find some comfort from the fact that God can draw near to them and sustain them in the days ahead.”

Meanwhile a book of condolence was opened for Ryan McBride

The Derry City F.C. captain was found dead in his Bradywell home on Sunday. He was 27 years old.  

The book was opened jointly by Mayor McClintock and Derry City Football Club at the Long Tower Youth Club.

.@derrycityfc official Sean Barrett pays tribute to 'true warrior' Ryan McBride pic.twitter.com/MlWdyyXNtD

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) March 20, 2017

^{Derry City CEO Sean Barrett pays tribute to Ryan McBride} 

The funerals of both Derry men are to take place on Thursday.