Northern Ireland

Co Antrim road crash victim described as someone who 'always had a smile'

Tributes have been paid to Heather Neill from Lisburn
Tributes have been paid to Heather Neill from Lisburn Tributes have been paid to Heather Neill from Lisburn

A retired teacher killed in a crash involving a bus and a car in Co Antrim has been described as someone who "always had a smile".

Heather Neill (58), from Lisburn, died after the car she was driving was in a collision with a Translink Goldline bus near Randalstown on Sunday afternoon.

The crash happened on the Moneynick Road between Toomebridge and Randalstown at around 3pm.

Tributes have been paid to Mrs Neill, who had recently retired from Dromore High School, with many describing her as a "fantastic teacher".

"I’m lost for words, Heather Neill you were a wonderful teacher, colleague and friend," said one former colleague.

"You always had a smile on your face every day.

"I loved working with you. You will be so missed by all. Thinking of your love ones."

John Wilkinson, a former principal of Dromore High School, said Mrs Neill was "loved by pupils and staff alike".

"Heather was head of business studies in Dromore High School for over 20 years," he told the Dromore Leader.

"She started her career in the school and soon impacted the lives of many young people both in her classes and as leader of scripture union.

"As a vivacious, fun-loving and extremely caring member of staff she was loved by pupils and staff alike.

"Many of us will remember her quirky hairstyles, face painting and nail art.

"But most of all her sincere Christian faith and love for all with whom she came in contact epitomised the way in which she lived out her life."

Another tribute described her as the "loveliest of ladies", adding that she was "just the brightest, bubbliest and most glamorous lady who lit up the whole room".

Another said she was "a wonderful woman", while she was also described as a "beautiful teacher, so very glamorous with always a smile".

Mrs Neill is survived by husband David and two children Holly and Scott.