Northern Ireland

Funeral for Belfast cyclist who died following Co Down collision

The funeral of a Belfast cyclist Aidan Fitzpatrick will take place today
The funeral of a Belfast cyclist Aidan Fitzpatrick will take place today

THE funeral of a cyclist who died following a collision in Co Down will take place today.

Father-of-five Aidan Fitzpatrick (59) was injured on the Killyleagh Road, Downpatrick at around 2pm on Sunday.

A second cyclist was also injured. Police said his injuries are not life threatening.

A black Mercedes car was also involved.

Mr Fitzpatrick, who was a manager in the advice and compliance division in the Northern Ireland Equality Commission, passed away on Wednesday and in accordance with his wishes, his family said his organs had been donated to help others live.

In a statement, his family said they have been left "devastated" by the loss and spoke of their "comfort that five other families may get hope from our loss".

Originally from Downpatrick but living in the Four Winds area of south Belfast, Mr Fitzpatrick's family have close connections with Bredagh GAA and Rosario Football Club.

In a family notice they asked that in lie of flowers donations could be made to Special Olympics Ulster.

Requiem Mass for Mr Fitzpatrick will take place today for 10.30am at St Bernadette's Church in Rosetta.

The funeral will proceed to Roselawn Crematorium afterwards for committal at 1pm.