THE Co Down man who died in a jet ski tragedy on Lough Erne was due to be married in three months time, it has emerged.
The body of Kenny Andrews, from Bangor, was recovered on Monday night, just over a day after he went missing in the waters of Lower Lough Erne at Muckross Bay in Co Fermanagh.
The 31-year-old was the managing director of Newtownards-based company, Damp Proofing NI. It is understood Mr Andrews and his fiancee were due to wed in December after getting engaged earlier this year.
A major search operation, involving police, RNLI , Community Rescue Service volunteers and the Irish Coastguard, was launched on Sunday evening after Mr Andrews was reported missing following an incident involving a jet ski.
A second man, aged 28, was rescued from the water by a passing boat.
But yesterday the Community Rescue Service confirmed the search operation had come to a "sad conclusion".
"The management and volunteers of the Community Rescue Service extend their deepest sympathy to the family and friends of the deceased at this sad time," it said in a Facebook post.
In a statement issued through police last night, the family of Mr Andrews thanked those who had helped search for him.
"His fiancée and family have expressed their thanks to the emergency services who were involved in the search for him," they said.
Friends have paid tribute to Mr Andrews on social media, with one pal describing his death as "such a tragedy".
Another friend said: "Broken man tonight Kenny Andrews u weren't just a friend, more like a brother to me a lot of people loved you - were kind, funny, will miss you big man".
DUP leader and Fermanagh and South Tyrone assembly member Arlene Foster said it was "deeply sad news".
"Will be thinking of those involved and their families. Thank you to those involved in the search and rescue, who worked so tirelessly to help find those missing."
Ulster Unionist assembly member Rosemary Barton said:
"At this very difficult time my thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved family together with those of the rescued jet skier.
"Once again given the unpredictable conditions of inland waterways I would appeal that those using the loughs, exercise all safety precautions and also check the expected changes in the weather conditions."
Green Party leader Steven Agnew in offering his condolences said it was a "very difficult time" for the family of Mr Andrews.
