Northern Ireland

Woman who died after River Bann boat fall named as Edelle McGlade

Edelle McGlade died after falling from a boat at Portglenone, Co Antrim
Edelle McGlade died after falling from a boat at Portglenone, Co Antrim Edelle McGlade died after falling from a boat at Portglenone, Co Antrim

A woman who died after falling from a boat on the River Bann has been named locally as Edelle McGlade.

The mother-of three is believed to have drowned at a marina in Portglenone at around 1am yesterday.

It is understood Ms McGlade, who is from Portstewart in Co Derry, was preparing to get off the moored boat when the accident happened.

From a well-known family in Portstewart, Ms McGlade, who is believed to have been in her late 40s, was active in her local parish.

Causeway Coast and Glens SDLP councillor Angela Mulholland said she was "always out walking her wee dog and always had a smile for everybody”.

“She would have been kind and very gentle and open to helping anybody who had difficulties in their own lives.

“It’s very, very sad and I offer my sincere condolences to her family, friends and all who knew her.”

Sean McCarry, regional commander of the Community Rescue Service, said members responded within minutes and after a short search recovered Ms McGlade’s body.

He urged people to take care around water.

“I would take this opportunity to urge everyone working or relaxing on or near water be it inland or the sea to be extremely careful at all times,” he said.